Tougher sentences for disqualified drivers

Drivers who are convicted of committing an offence whilst disqualified from driving are going to face tougher sentences.

New rules being brought into effect as part of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act will see the maximum sentence for those convicted of causing death by driving while disqualified increased from two years to 10 years.

A new offence, causing serious injury by driving while disqualified, has also been introduced, and will carry a custodial sentence of up to four years.

The tougher sentences have been welcomed by road charities including Brake, who believe that ‘inappropriate’ short sentences leave victims and their families feeling let down and betrayed. 

Ed Morrow, Brake’s campaigns officer, said; "Getting behind the wheel when a court has already found you to be a danger on the road, and has disqualified you from doing so, is one of the most selfish decisions you can make as a driver.

It is entirely right that maximum sentences are being increased, and we hope that judges will make use of them where appropriate."

The Ministry of Justice is currently conducting a wider review of all motoring offences and charges.

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