A lot to say here that I'll hold my tongue on....
In Germany, fines such as speeding are based on net worth along with the normal factors (speed etc.). For me, 20kph over would be 500DM (for example).
A rich dude on a Beemer might pay 5000DM for the same offense.
I think that's a fair system. If the idea is to deter, everyone needs to feel the pain equally.
Drivers Ed... or should I say lack thereof. When I was a kid, drivers ed was pretty much taught in every high school in the country.... and mandatory in most.
But it cost's money to fund a program like that. Tax money.
So we, as a society decided we hate taxes. Get rid of 'em.... all hail Grover Norquist.
...and here we are... idiots on the road that barely passed their driving test and haven't a clue about the proper way to "share the road."
But damned if our taxes didn't go down, or at least not go to stupid shit... you know, like learin' the "proper" way to drive.
You get what you pay for.