The Danish have recently chosen a new government. The centre-right opposition won the Danish parliamentary elections by a hair. The new parliament wants to discourage immigration and will guard the borders more closely to prevent criminal immigration. This means there will be more border controls and this is something we are seeing more in European countries nowadays. The new policy conforms to the current Schengen treaty and isn't directly focused on the transport sector. Yet the transport sector has a higher chance of being checked and the risk of being fined is also higher. In recent months Transport in Need has had to pay various high fines in Denmark. "We would therefore advise you to drive extra carefully in Denmark. If you are fined, Denmark has a special appeal procedure."
"People sometimes think that "cooperating" with the police is positive. Our experience teaches us that this is not always the case. Answering questions and admitting guilt will not reduce the fine in Denmark. There is no point in explaining that your boss told you to drive quickly. The fines will still be issued," according to the organisation. "This can also cause a lot of delay. In many cases an interpreter will have to be summoned. Outside of office times this could even mean that you have to wait until the next day. We therefore advise you to not participate in the 'conversation' with the police. According to the Danish law you are not required to cooperate in the police investigation. You don't have to answer anything and you do not have to prove anything. There is therefore no reason not to be silent. You are required to show your documents and give your personal details."
Do not admit guilt if given a hefty fine! The police will ask if you want to confess. This is the regular course of action when it comes to a monetary fine in Scandinavia. When you admit guilt, the amount paid is dismissed as a fine. The case will be closed to the Danish police and be archived. If you are silent, or indicate that you do not wish to talk, the court will send you and order which can then be appeal against. The amount paid at the time is used as deposit. Everyone has the right to a fair trial, even when caught 'red handed'.
Drivers can call Transport in Need 24/7 at +31 (0)6 430 638 66 if you have been pulled over and aren't sure what to do. "We, and our translator, will make sure you are on the road again as soon as possible. Download our free App Legal Control, as it shows where the transport controls are in Europe."
