Traffic fines seem out of proportion for people who are ‘just about managing’
Thursday, 13th April 2017
• THERE was a tragic case of suicide reported in the New Journal (My son took his life after bailiff called at home, March 23) and it struck me that a change in attitude could have saved the individual concerned.
For those who are on the edge of despair, cigarettes, a church service, or even some kindly words of financial advice can be vital, rather than punitive measures.
The young motorbike courier was doing a vital service for medical care, but his wages couldn’t be stretched for a traffic fine of more than £1,000 – for the flimsy reason that he was in a bus lane slightly early or doing a U-turn. How could he pay it back when his bike was clamped?
It’s easy money for the traffic police. Why must the procedure be so harsh? Why bailiffs? A lot of working people are JAMs – Just About Managing – and for them the traffic fines seem out of proportion.
Some leeway must be found for those who are young, vulnerable or obviously in need of aid.
ANNETTE BROOKER
Central Street, EC1
