Radars made it possible to recover 747 million euros in fixed fines
Road fines brought in more than 2 billion euros to the French budget in 2023, or 7% more than in 2022 (which had already been a record year), we learn from a recent report from the Court accounts. This represents the second best result for speed camera revenue since their introduction. The fixed fines, paid on time, contributed 747 million euros to this revenue. The effectiveness of radars is also underlined by an increasing “availability”, the proportion of radars in working order reaching 91%, which is a lot for France.
The Court of Auditors notes that automatic radars have become more numerous and varied, reaching a total of 4,661 devices. This increase includes an expansion of turret radars and discriminating radars, which can distinguish between different types of vehicles. This diversity and expansion helps explain the increase in revenue, even if it was partially offset by a drop in the number of radar cars, the maintenance costs of which are particularly high.
Vandals, a disaster for radars
Despite these successes, vandalism against speed cameras experienced a resurgence in 2023, partly linked to social movements against pension reform. The costs of repairing vandalized radars have increased, reaching 19.6 million euros. Additionally, maintenance costs continue to grow, influenced by the increase in the number of radars, although the reduction in the number of radar cars has helped to contain these expenses
The Court of Auditors report also raises concerns about the sustainability of revenue from fines, suggesting that various factors, such as emissions reduction policies and changes in the driving habits of the French, could reduce this revenue over time. ‘future. These elements prompt reflection on the balance between road safety and financial dependence on fines, a debate which should continue as the socio-economic context evolves.
