[MovedGoalPosts]

Fixed penalties are exactly that a set amount. Harsh for some, and relaxed for others. As far as I know you don't have to accept a fixed penalty and can ask to be heard at court. But you then risk a higher penalty as FPNS should simplify stuff. The court is also likely to apply a sliding scale based on actual means to pay.

FPNS have gradually been used to save costs of paperwork in prosecution. Fair enough, but they only offer a little discretion. They should only be used for straightforward matters where they are an equivalent to a slap on the wrist. I'm not sure careless driving can fall into that?

That same article also suggests a FPN for lack of insurance. That one is a difficult call. I know your car can now be towed and potentially scrapped as an added deterrent. Realistically though the punishment needs to be in addition to the amount of the insurance premium the person has evaded paying, otherwise some who drive around in bangers will see the risk of getting caught as cheaper than doing it properly.