Government Cracks Down on Banned Drivers

Tougher sentences are to be given to banned drivers who cause death or serious injury on the roads, under new measures published by the UK Government.

The changes will mean that disqualified drivers could be sentenced to up to ten years in prison if they cause a death and up to four years in prison if their actions result in serious injuries. The Government says these new sentencing limits are designed to reflect the impact on victims and their families.

The current maximum sentences for driving offences which cause serious injury and death are set out by the Road Traffic Act 1988. They include:

• Causing Death by Dangerous Driving (14 years);
• Causing Death by Careless Driving when under the influence of drink or drugs (14 years);
• Causing Death by Careless of Inconsiderate Driving (five years);
• Causing Serious Injury by Dangerous Driving (five years); and
• Causing Death by Driving when Unlicensed, Uninsured or Disqualified (two years).

“Disqualified drivers should not be on our roads for good reason,” said Justice Secretary Chris Grayling. “Those who chose to defy a ban imposed by a court and go on to destroy innocent lives must face serious consequences for the terrible impact of their actions.”

“Today, we are sending a clear message that anyone who does will face much tougher punishment,” he added.

The Government plans to change the law shortly to introduce the new sentences. The changes are expected to be implemented in early 2015.

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