Aral BalkanApr 19, 2023
A timely reminder that “punishable by fine” means “legal for the rich.”
Show threadamd
@aral Example: I once knew a VC who would take the HOV lane when alone and just pay the couple of tickets a year they got for violating the rules. They believed the time savings accrued by staying out of traffic was worth the fine.
Apr 19, 2023 at 9:10pmWeb
Show threadAral BalkanApr 19, 2023
@amd A VC, you say. How shocking.
Show threadPatrick MevzekApr 19, 2023
@amd @aral An example explaining why in multiple countries the road fine amount is proportional to your income (verified on the spot by the police agent). So that the "incentive" to not do it is adapted to your wealth.
Show threadTim LavoieApr 19, 2023
@amd @aral Too bad the enforcement took the form of tickets, rather than electronically-controlled moving bollards.
Show threadStevens R MillerApr 19, 2023

@amd @aral

I once knew a guy who said there should be a $50 lane in the Holland Tunnel, on similar logic.

Also, I have represented a few street-level pot dealers. They view the occasional few days in jail every year somewhat like we view paying our taxes: it's a necessary annoyance that comes with making a living. If we got a single bust for dealing pot, our lives would probably be ruined. But a professional? What's one more misdemeanor guilty plea to him?

Show threadP CApr 20, 2023
@amd @aral I think this may be more common than we know. Decades back, my friend had told of someone who had his driver speed regularly on highways and just pay the fine if caught. He valued his time and had the money. #India
Show threadClaudius (legacy account)Apr 21, 2023
@amd
Depending on their hourly rate, sadly, this might be the "right" choice. We need fines relative to income (at least!)
@aral