No place to hide for Europe's road hogs from now on

New EU rules on cross-border traffic fines enter into force on Thursday. Member states will be obliged to exchange information on citizens who have committed a traffic offence in another EU country. The UK, Ireland and Denmark have opted out of the new Directive.

The ruling effectively ends impunity for European drivers who when on holiday in another member state think they can get away with breaking the law. Previously it had been impossible for member states to properly follow up on highway code violations committed by non-nationals.

Police databases for motoring offences will now be opened up automatically and cross-border prosecutions will be pursued.

Beyond speeding tickets and parking violations, police say it will be easier to crack down on defective, dangerous or stolen vehicles, or vehicles involved in organised crime.