Italian Fines Are Flooding Germany and Causing Chaos!
Welcome to the world where drivers in Germany receive fines for offenses committed in Italy, and not only do they ignore them at their own peril, but they risk doubling their debt and having their vehicle seized! Yes, you read that right.
The Law Is Clear, But Who Follows It?
Italy is back in the EU data exchange system, meaning traffic fines are sent directly to vehicle owners in Germany. It doesn’t matter who was driving – the owner is responsible. Fines come for driving in restricted traffic zones (ZTL), illegal parking, or speeding, especially in popular regions like South Tyrol.
Pay Early for a Discount, Ignore and Double Your Fine!
If you pay the fine within five days, you usually get a discount. But if you ignore it, after 60 days the fine doubles! And that’s not all – in cases of repeated offenses or serious violations, your vehicle can be temporarily seized in Italy until the debt is paid.
Language and Legal Protection
Most fines are issued in Italian, but enforcement in Germany can only proceed if the content is understandable. If there is no German translation, you can successfully file an objection. The objection must be written in Italian and submitted within the deadline.
How to Pay?
Payment is possible via bank transfer or often online, with payment details usually on the fine notice. If unsure how to proceed, legal advice is recommended.
Driving Ban Applies Only in Italy
If Italy issues a driving ban, it applies only within Italy. Italian fines do not add points in the German Flensburg system.
Who Collects the Fines?
Private agencies are not allowed to collect public fines, although exceptions exist for private claims like tolls.
Enforcement in Germany
Fines of 70 euros and above can be enforced in Germany. The Federal Justice Office in Bonn checks the formal correctness of Italian fines, deadlines, and clarity.
What’s a Fine Notice and What’s an Enforcement Order?
A fine notice (Bußgeldbescheid) is issued by the Italian traffic police and contains details of the offense, fine amount, and deadlines. An enforcement order (Vollstreckungsbescheid) is issued by German judicial authorities when Italy sends a final enforceable fine. This order has the force of a German administrative act and can lead to enforcement measures including seizure if unpaid.
Why Does This Matter?
Ignoring fines from Italy can cost you way more than you think. Quick payment can save you money and headaches. If you own a vehicle in Germany and plan to travel to Italy, better know the rules and don’t mess around on Italian roads.
Conclusion
Don’t let Italian fines catch you off guard and wreck your budget. The system is now efficient and ruthless. Pay on time or prepare for doubled fines and possible vehicle seizures. And yes, if you get a notice in Italian, don’t just toss it in a drawer – get a translation or legal help.
So, have you ever gotten a fine from abroad? Or know someone who ignored it and paid the price? Drop a comment, let’s see who’s the bravest (or dumbest) among us!
