The certainty of being caught

Lawlessness on the road and lawless when it comes to the use of public funds for infrastructure aren't that different.

- IÑIGO S. ROCES

In fact, one could say that both can be somewhat curtailed with one particular deterrent: the certainty of being caught and punished.

To illustrate my point, let's compare for example the streets of Metro Manila vs the streets of any former US military base like Clark or Subic. In Manila, most motorists are fairly cavalier with the law, often ignoring even simple rules like the speed limit, or posted signs like no left turn or no U-turn. However, in Subic or Clark, even the often-ignored speed limit is surprisingly being observed. It's like entering a different country, particularly with how behaved motorists are.

Perhaps a key factor to this attitude change is the certainty of being caught, and the severity of the punishment itself. Even tiny offenses, like failing to come to a stop at a stop sign, are cited by enforcers. You've likely heard stories of friends or relatives getting caught for one. Traffic cops here are not likely to let you off easy, not intimidated by who you 'pretend' you are, and I'm pretty sure will not take kindly to bribe offers. Moreso, the thought of having to go back to Clark or Subic after a few days and paying the fine is more than enough of a deterrent for everyone else.