Running over tree roots with a vehicle can kill trees, depending upon the species and the age and the root that was run over. Injured roots can also become infected with various tree fungi which can also kill the tree. Considering universities have something aesthetically to gain from having hundred-odd year old trees on their campuses, Sounds like a completely valid reason to fine someone...or at least to hopefully prevent someone from being overtly careless. Basically it boils down to the "Give a damn" contention...I'm wondering if we can move the "Give A Damn" hypothesis to theory now, because UA still demonstrates that it really doesn't give a damn...about engaing the public, or it's alumni and students