This reason is why, in some parts of the US, traffic court convictions for moving violations (i.e., run red light) carries both a monetary fine and a demerit po

This reason is why, in some parts of the US, traffic court convictions for moving violations (i.e., run red light) carries both a monetary fine and a demerit points allocation against your license. Exceed some small demerit points limit over a defined time period and your can be ordered into driver school or have your license suspended. https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#points_you.asp https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#points_you.asp With the points system, a "rich dude" who see's a $500 red light fine as pocket change can't simply run red lights as long as they see fit. If the monetary fine is not itself a deterrence, the demerit points then become the deterrence.