Speeding drivers face tougher penalties

The Department of Transport is about to launch a consultation document to propose that motorists caught speeding should be given a larger fine, and a greater number of penalty points, depending upon the amount by which the limit was exceeded.

The proposal would suggest that motorists could receive a six-month driving ban after receiving six-point penalties for just two offences.

The road safety minister, Jim Fitzpatrick, told the Times newspaper: "There is a very strong argument for saying that the more you speed, the more the penalty should be."

Caravan owners are likely to back the move as they have more to lose than most if they are involved in an accident caused by a speeding driver.

Association of Chief Police Officer guidelines do currently state that drivers should receive a summons rather than a fixed penalty if they are caught at 50mph or above on a 30mph road. Once convicted, magistrates can impose up to six penalty points or a ban for a very serious breach.

In 2004, the government launched a consultation to reduce the penalties and fines for drivers who only breech the limit by a couple of miles per hour.

This was met with resistance by motoring organisations and campaigners who pointed out that even exceeding the limit by five miles per hour in a 30 mph zone could double to risk of death to a pedestrian involved in a collision.

12/11/2007 12:08:18