Germany, Switzerland moves against lawless tourists

BERLIN – Switzerland and Germany have announced plans to crack down on motorists who park illegally or speed after crossing the border between the neighbouring countries, with stronger powers to enforce infringement notices and collect fines.

Germany’s parliament, the Bundestag, passed a bill on Thursday night on cross-border police and judicial cooperation with Switzerland. It reorganizes jurisdiction and procedure, including legal protection for requests for enforcement assistance, which should simplify the collection of fines. 

Fines for offences such as speeding or parking are considerably higher in Switzerland than in Germany. 

In Germany anyone driving up to 10 kilometres per hour too fast has to pay €20 ($21) plus administrative expenses and fees. In Switzerland, speeding fines are three to six times higher, depending on the type of road.