Tougher penalties for unlicensed drivers who kill

Wednesday, May 7, 2014 - 16:00
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TOUGH: Stronger penalties confirmed

Disqualified drivers who kill or injure on the road will face much tougher sentences under new government guidelines.

Justice Secretary Chris Grayling MP has confirmed those who kill will now receive a maximum ten-year sentence, with those who seriously injure receiving four years.

Currently, the maximum sentence is only two years for causing a death, while there is no specific offence for causing a serious injury while disqualified.

Mr Grayling also announced his intention to conduct a full review of driving offences and penalties.

Road safety charity Brake welcomed the announcement.

Julie Townsend, Deputy Chief Executive at Brake, said: “Brake has long campaigned for a shake-up of charges and penalties for risky and irresponsible drivers who kill and injure on our roads.

“Brake supports families who have been deeply and permanently affected by selfish and risky behaviour at the wheel and we frequently hear from these families that they feel terribly let down by our justice system.

“As such, we strongly welcome Chris Grayling’s announcement of a thorough review this year.

“The paltry sentences handed out for deaths and injuries caused by disqualified drivers, who have no right to be on the road in the first place, are one of the worst injustices in the current system, and Brake strongly welcomes the government’s move to address this.

“Getting behind the wheel when you have been banned from driving is a deliberate and illegal choice, and too often leads to devastating tragedies – the penalties must reflect this.”

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