Doesn't matter.
He knows the law, whether his minders are afraid to tell him or not. And ignorance of the law is not an excuse. And it he wants to argue that he didn't know, then he's even more out of touch than he appears. He really doesn't even have a metaphorical leg to stand on.
Once he's off his ventilator and up and about, he should have a press conference in his hospital gown, open it up, show his scars, etc., pay the fine, say he was an idiot and urge everyone to buckle up. I'll be willing to cut him a break then.
Cheers,
Scott.