[Vigilanteman]

That's exactly what's going to happen. They will abandon the car and walk (if close enough) or call a friend (if not). It may cut down on the number of gas call incidents or prompt more people to join AAA or other auto clubs since the fine is more than the premium membership. It is unlikely to bring in the revenue envisioned and could result in more draconian legislation such as requiring AAA to rat on their members.

Then there's the question of cause. What if the motorist ran out of gas because they were caught in a highway construction delay?

[Mr. Bird]

Then there's the question of cause. What if the motorist ran out of gas because they were caught in a highway construction delay?

I see a few comments like this one. I think that is highly unlikely based on a specific, personal experience. During last year's "Snowmageddon" in DC, I sat in my gas-guzzling SUV for eight hours for an eight mile commute (no exaggeration). Because I had a relatively full tank, I did not worry about running out of gas. I was very interested to observe my overall consumption was not all that extraordinary. And that was eight hours.

As for abandoning the car, then the penalty gets enhanced with towing fees. I am in agreement with this. I have long felt that running out of gas is one of the silliest, unjustifiable reasons for disabled vehicles on the road. To do so in an area with no shoulder or restricted lanes is indefensible.