How can I object to a traffic fine subsequently when I didn't know the formalities?

Question

On a recent visit to Belgium, I was fined for an alleged traffic offence as a pedestrian. In brief, I didn't notice an order by hand signal, because it was given outside my field of view. I doubt that the fine was justified.

Belgian police made me pay on the spot. They're entitled to do this because I'm not living in their country.

Before I paid the fine, I told the policeman that I didn't agree and would complain about the fine. He replied, "you pay, then you can complain".

What he didn't tell me was that I would have had to file a formal complaint immediately to turn the fine into some kind of deposit and reserve the right to object. I was informed about this subtlety only when I wrote to the police office a few days later from home.

When the policeman had handed me the payment receipt, I asked him if there was anything else, and he said we were finished. In his favour, I assume he simply forgot about my intent to complain.

Is there anything I could do to object and have the case reviewed?

I should add that, although I had to pay a considerable amount (174 euro), it probably won't pay off to hire a lawyer.

Thanks for any helpful replies.

(Admins, feel free to move this question to 'travel' or wherever it fits best.)

Answer 1

Ignorantia juris non excusat

What do you mean you "didn't know"? Its your duty to inform yourself of all the laws that apply to you at all times and in all jurisdictions.

While this is a practical absurdity, it is fundamental to the rule of law - otherwise people could get away with murder because they "didn't know" killing people was illegal.

Unfortunately for you, if there is a strict time limitation on appealing the fine then you are subject to it even if you didn't know. Oh, and a police officer (or anyone else) is not obliged to tell you what the law is.