Killer Drivers To Be Handed Tougher Sentences

UK Justice Secretary Chris Gayling has announced plans to dramatically reduce road traffic accidents by issuing tougher jail sentences to disqualified drivers who cause death behind the wheel.

Offenders who defy driving bans could be landed with a 10 year prison term if they kill another road user in a driving accident, while those who cause serious injuries will face up to four years. That’s if a wave of reforms set to be applied from 2015 go through.

The news of harsher penalties for dangerous driving will come as welcome news to thousands of UK families who have lost loves ones as a result of irresponsible drivers. The current maximum sentence faced by a driver who causes death while driving when disqualified is two years in jail and there is no specific offence for causing serious injury while banned.

In 2012 there were 16 prosecutions and 13 convictions for causing death by driving when disqualified, unlicensed or uninsured. And Mr Grayling has claimed the changes would send a clear message to drivers who flout bans and "go on to destroy innocent lives". He has also announced plans for a full review of all driving offences and penalties, which includes offences committed by uninsured and unlicensed drivers.

Mr Grayling said: “I want to make our roads safer and ensure people who cause harm face tough penalties. Disqualified drivers should not be on our roads for good reason.

“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.

“We are sending a clear message that anyone who does will face much tougher punishment.”

Shadow Justice Secretary Sadiq Khan has added, “Those driving without insurance that cause serious injuries or deaths should be properly punished.”

“The Government also needs to assure the public that they have enough space in prison to cope with the increased demand. The current shortage of space and increased overcrowding on their watch has led to serious problems in our prisons.”

Have you suffered injury as a result of a road accident caused by another road user’s reckless driving? We’d like to hear from you. Call Winn Solicitors today on 0800 988 6288 for no obligation advice on claiming compensation in the event of a road traffic accident.

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