The Supreme Court stated on Friday that if a person violates the law, their subsequent violations may affect the penalty.
Helger Hallik exceeded the speed limit on Muhu Island on October 27, 2024. He was driving 142 km/h, although the speed limit was 90 km/h. The police revoked Hallik's driving license for five months on November 22. The police also took into account that Hallik exceeded the speed limit again on November 17 and received a fine for it.
The Tartu County Court modified the penalty. The court found that the November 17 violation could not be considered since it occurred later. The County Court imposed a 400-euro fine on Hallik.
The Supreme Court overturned the County Court's decision and upheld the police's penalty. The Supreme Court said that a subsequent violation may be considered when determining the penalty if it helps the person follow the law. However, this can only be done if the penalty for the subsequent violation has already taken effect.
The Supreme Court added that a person's subsequent actions reflect their behavior. If a person continues to commit violations, a harsher penalty may be necessary.