01/09/2004

One-size-fits-all speeding penalties to be scrapped

Motorists who are caught speeding at just above the limit could receive a lesser penalty than faster, more irresponsible drivers, under government plans published today.

Penalties starting from £40 and two penalty points for the less serious offences, would be ramped up to £100 and six points for more serious speeding offenders. The lower penalty would not apply to people speeding in 20 mph speed limits.

Transport Secretary Alistair Darling said the proposals would be more effective and appropriate than the current one-size-fits-all approach.

"We want to ensure that the level of the penalty fits the severity of the offence - including a crackdown on the most dangerous offences," he said.

The consultation document also welcomes police proposals to introduce speed awareness courses for first-time 'low-end' offenders. Motorists would pay to attend the course in lieu of the two-point penalty.

Mr Darling added: "I hope these courses, and continued enforcement, will encourage the minority of drivers who speed to slow down - for the sake of their and other road users' safety."

(gmcg/sp)

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