Go Straight To Jail - Do Not Pass Go! Life Sentences Proposed For Dangerous Drivers

So said Justice Minister Sam Gyimah as part of a consultation which would put penalties for the some of the most serious road traffic offences on the same level as manslaughter.

The new plans come as ministers seek to deter dangerous, criminal behaviour on the roads and make sure killer drivers face the toughest penalties. In addition, a new offence is being proposed for careless driving resulting in serious injury, which would also carry a custodial sentence. We analyse the ramifications of these proposals as sentencing for road traffic offences looks set to follow a much tougher path.

The proposals

The consultation seeks views on introducing:

life sentences (up from 14 years) for causing death by dangerous driving; life sentences (up from 14 years) for careless drivers who kill whilst under the influence of drink or drugs; and a new offence of causing serious injury by careless driving, with a maximum sentence of 3 years. The proposals do not cover all driving offences, including the basic offences of dangerous or careless driving, but follow a concerted effort by the government to crack down on what is perceived by some to...