Traffic issues and road safety are among some of the many concerns frequently raised with me by my constituents and whilst the UK has one of the best road safety records, deaths and serious injuries have devastating effects on victims as well as their families.
I am therefore pleased to see the Government publish a consultation this week on possible changes to the offences and penalties for those who kill or cause serious injuries on our roads, and I was able to meet with the Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary, Liz Truss MP, to discuss further. The consultation seeks views on whether the current maximum penalties available to the courts should be increased.
Proposals include:
– Increasing the maximum sentence for causing death by dangerous driving from 14 years to life.
– Increasing the maximum sentence for causing death by careless driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs from 14 years to life.
– Creating a new offence of causing serious injury by careless driving with a maximum sentence of three years.
– Increasing minimum driving bans for those convicted of causing death.
Whilst at this stage it is a consultation on proposals, it is nonetheless very welcome.