Motorists face stiffer traffic fines

WASILLA -- A new bail schedule, announced recently by the Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bill Tandeske, raises potential fines for numerous traffic and vehicle violations. The new schedule, which went into effect on July 1, includes substantial increases in speeding penalties, passing violations and driving with open alcohol containers.

"We believe the new schedule is a valuable tool for law enforcement across the state," Tandeske said in a press release "Many of these fines have not been raised in years. These modified bail amounts will bring our fines more in line with other jurisdictions, and we hope they will encourage safe driving conduct on our roadways."

For violations of up to 19 miles per hour over the speed limit, the fine increases from $4 per mph to $8 per mph. Someone cited for driving 50 mph in a posted 35 mph zone, for example, faces a fine of $120 instead of $60. If the violation occurs in a marked construction zone, the fine doubles from $120 to $240. For violations of 20 miles per hour over the speed limit and greater, the fine increases to $12 per mph with a cap on fines at $300 -- $600 in a construction zone.

Fines for passing violations also increased. The fine for improper overtaking on the left goes from $30 to $150 and failure to yield to an overtaking vehicle increases from $50 to $150. Failure to stop at a stoplight triples from $50 to $150 and driving with an open container of alcohol quadrupled, from $50 to $200.

"We've tried to stiffen the fines for the infractions that create the greatest risk to the motoring public," Tandeske said. "The desire of law enforcement is always voluntary compliance with traffic regulations. Where education and voluntary compliance are not effective, monetary considerations can be effective. These increases are not motivated by desire for revenue; rather, by our sincere desire to make the roads of Alaska a safer place for everyone."

Overall, bail amounts increased on more than 230 vehicle and traffic offenses. Demerit points were not changed as they are administered separately from the bail schedule.

Contact Joel Davidson at joel.davidson@frontiersman.com.