New York is launching the “decibel fine” by fining cars whose exhaust exceeds a certain noise level. This decision is part of the SLEEP law – Stop Loud and Excessive Exhaust Pollution – and is aimed more specifically at street racing enthusiasts who equip their cars with increasingly louder exhaust pipes.
Noise disturbance
The metropolitan city of New York has to contend with busy and noisy traffic, especially when sports cars with overly loud exhausts are involved. The city has therefore decided to combat this noise pollution by imposing fines of up to 1,000 dollars (870 euros) on car owners who exceed a certain decibel level. This measure is mainly aimed at street racing fans who are active at night and prevent local residents from sleeping peacefully.
Double Penalty
Worse, any violator caught will face two fines. The first for dangerous driving and the second for noise pollution. The latter will cost you $1,000. This penalty is intended to discourage troublemakers, who previously had to pay a fine of ‘only’ 150 dollars (130 euros).
And in Belgium?
In Belgium it is also forbidden to make too much noise, but there is no uniform rule for the whole country. The penalties vary according to the municipality. In Ghent, for example, a driver who makes too much noise with his exhaust or music can lose his car for 72 hours.
The highway code determines the noise threshold that must not be exceeded depending on the engine type. Gasoline is limited to 95 dB, while diesel is limited to 100 dB (up to 200 hp) and 105 dB (over 200 hp).
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