THE government is planning to increase its traffic fine revenue to TL 2.7 billion in 2015, a 48 percent increase from this year’s collection, according to recent budget figures presented in Parliament.

Recent figures showed that TL 1.363 billion was collected in traffic fines during the first eight months of this year. It is expected that 2014 revenues will reach the TL 1.8 billion mark by year’s end, indicating the number and amount of traffic fines will be likely be hiked significantly next year to reach the higher targets.

Overall targets for fine revenue in 2015 are at the TL 9 million mark as the government aims to collect TL 3.7 billion in tax fines, TL 1.8 billion in administrative fines, TL 520 million in court fines and TL 202 million of “other” fines.

At the beginning of 2014, the fines for numerous traffic infractions, including speeding, running a red light and drunk driving were all increased.