This week on Weird and Wacky Wednesdays, we are diving into a series of driving stories that highlight some truly bizarre behaviour on the roads. On the Driving Law Podcast last week, we had so many Ridiculous Drivers of the Week that it was impossible to choose just one. Some cases stand out more than others, so today we are sharing three we’ve skipped over: a lawyer with an enormous fine, a driver committing a strange yet increasingly common offence, and a vehicle repair that defies logic.
The Lawyer with the $115,000 Tailgating Ticket
In Switzerland, a lawyer was fined $115,000 for tailgating on a highway near Zurich. In Switzerland, traffic fines are income-based, and the court determined that the 58-year-old lawyer earns about $2 million annually. As a result, his penalty reflected his income level.
The lawyer was observed following another vehicle at a distance of 26 to 40 feet while driving at speeds of 74 mph in his BMW. He appealed the fine twice, arguing the video evidence was inaccurate. Both appeals were dismissed. Although a secondary fine was slightly reduced, the overall penalty remains significant.
The public prosecutor stated that the lawyer’s driving posed a “serious threat” and carried a “high risk of accidents.” It is a reminder that fines can be severe when driving dangerously, especially in jurisdictions where penalties are linked to income.
Curious about traffic fines and how they differ in various jurisdictions? Explore our post on “10 Things to Know Before You Pay Your Traffic Ticket Online in BC“.
Watching Porn While Driving
On Highway 417 near Ottawa, police recently stopped a 38-year-old driver for watching a porn while driving. The phone was resting just behind the steering wheel, making it visible to the police officer. The WPWD incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. so in full on traffic.
The driver received a $615 fine and three demerit points. Constable Michael Fathi of the OPP noted that shorter days make it easier for officers to spot drivers using phones. Despite enforcement efforts, distracted driving has not decreased. Drivers are attempt to hide their phones, often looking down, which increases the risk.
“Driving requires your full attention. Leave the phone alone, wait until you get home,” said Constable Fathi. Watching porn while driving may seem extreme, but police are encountering it more frequently. It is a dangerous trend that puts everyone on the road at risk.
For more bizarre stories involving distracted driving, take a look at our “Important Cases You Need to Know About Distracted Driving in BC“.
Wallpaper Repairs: DIY Gone Too Far
In West Yorkshire, England, police stopped a Toyota Yaris that had been involved in a collision the previous day. Instead of arranging proper repairs, the owner covered the damage with wallpaper and packaging tape. The rear door was not only dented but had a hole, which the wallpaper failed to hide.
The Steerside Enforcement Team, a police unit focused on unsafe driving, found the situation concerning. Further inspection revealed a bald tire, which posed an even greater safety issue. The vehicle was deemed unfit for the road and towed. The driver received a citation and must now complete proper repairs before the car can be driven again.
While creative solutions may work in other situations, this one highlights the risks of taking shortcuts with vehicle safety.
To learn more about the unusual and sometimes creative ways drivers try to avoid vehicle citations, check out “Driving Without Due Care and Attention in British Columbia: What You Need to Know“.
There is no shortage of unusual driving stories. Whether it is extreme fines, reckless distractions, or unsafe repairs, drivers continue to surprise us. These cases serve as a reminder of the importance of safety and responsibility on the road.
