How a speeder in America was fined millions

$1.4 million for a speeding ticket? A car driver in Georgia couldn’t believe his eyes. How does that happen?

A motorist in the US state of Georgia got a nasty surprise when the police flashed him for speeding. Instead of the permitted 55 miles per hour, he traveled 90 miles (145 kilometers per hour) in early September. When the penalty came, local broadcaster WSAV reported, he was hit hard: he had to pay $1.4 million (1.33 million euros) for the violation.

The man suspected a typo and called the authorities. But, it said, he has to pay the amount or appear before the court on December 21. Criminal penalties in Georgia do not actually exceed $1,000 (950.21 euros), lawyer Sne Patel told the broadcaster. The station then contacted the Savannah city administration. “The amount mentioned in the electronic summons is a reservation and not a penalty,” he replied. The latter will be determined solely by the judge at the court date.

Anyone who breaks the speed limit by 35 miles per hour or more must appear in court. The system automatically added $999,999.99 plus administrative fees as a reserve. In fact, the maximum fine is $1,000.