Why Finland fined this driver $60,000 for going 14 mph over the limit

Most of us have been there — you’re nonchalantly cruising about 10 mph over the speed limit, only to notice a police car flash the lights behind you. It’s a downer that’ll cost maybe $350, and a couple hours of traffic school to knock the point off the record.

But a similar infraction cost one driver nearly $60,000 in Finland.

Reima Kuisla was on his way to the airport when he got caught going 103 km/h (64 mph) in an 80km/h (50 mph) zone, setting him back 54,024 euros. It’s a seemingly excessive penalty until you realize how Finland calculates its fines.