Dangerous drivers who kill are set to face life sentence, under plans put forward by ministers. Those caught causing death by speeding, street racing or while on a mobile phone are now facing the same sentences as those charged with manslaughter. Whilst those who cause death by careless driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs could also be handed life sentences - an increase on the current 14 year upper limit.
In 2015, 122 people were sentenced for causing death by dangerous driving, with a further 21 convicted of causing death by careless driving whilst under the influence.
A consultation seeks views on whether the current maximum penalties available to the courts should be increased. You can take part here: https://consult.justice.gov.uk/digital-communications/driving-offences-causing-death-or-serious-injury/
Tim said:
“To lose a loved one in a car accident is painful enough tragedy, but to know that it all could have been avoided if the person behind the wheel of the other car had one less drink, or had looked up from their phone, gives it a horrible feeling of pointlessness. The sheer selfishness and idiocy of dangerous driving has caused immeasurable pain for families in my constituency and across the country.
“I welcome the Government’s plans to punish those who act so thoughtlessly with the harshest of penalties. “If you drive dangerously and kill you could face life in prison,” this is a powerful message and I hope it will act as a deterrent to stop further tragedy from occurring.”