The Andy Burnham-led government is poised to introduce tougher penalties for drivers who fail to stop and report road traffic incidents, with new proposals potentially adding 5 to 10 penalty points to their licences. The move follows a public consultation that closed on May 16, with an update expected by August 16.
Consultation on Road Safety Strategy
Under the previous Labour Party government, a consultation was launched into proposed changes outlined in the Road Safety Strategy. The consultation ended on May 16, with a promise to publish responses 'within three months' and to implement legislative changes 'later this year'. This timeline means the next stage should be reached by August 16, when the government is expected to announce its next steps.
One of the key issues highlighted in the consultation was the offence of failing to stop and report an accident. The government described this behaviour as "unacceptable" and stated it was "determined to combat this behaviour." Officials also expressed concern that the offence of failing to stop for police is currently only punishable by a fine, which they consider insufficient.
Proposed Penalty Points System
Campaigners have long argued that this offence should attract penalty points. The consultation suggests the department is considering aligning the penalty for failing to stop for police with that of failing to stop and report, which would result in 5 to 10 penalty points. This would mark a significant shift from the current system, where failure to stop is treated as an aggravating factor in court sentencing.
Currently, the maximum sentence for failing to stop is six months' imprisonment. The consultation warns that this penalty may not be enough to deter offenders. Existing penalties for the offence include 5 to 10 penalty points, disqualification for 6 to 12 months, a fine of up to £5,000, and up to six months in prison.
Demands for Stronger Measures
The consultation document states: "The government is aware of calls from parliamentarians, road safety stakeholders, the police, and victims' families to introduce additional measures in respect to this area." These calls include requests for anyone charged with serious driving offences that lead to a fatality or serious injury to have their driving licence suspended until trial.
Such a change would align with considerations being given to penalties for drink and drug driving in the same consultation. The government is expected to announce an update on the consultation this month, which could pave the way for these new measures.
Impact on Drivers
If implemented, the new penalty points system would mean drivers who fail to stop after an accident could face up to 10 points on their licence, bringing them closer to a driving ban. For new drivers, accumulating 6 points within two years of passing their test would result in their licence being revoked, making this a particularly significant change.
Road safety groups have welcomed the proposals, arguing that stronger penalties are needed to deter dangerous behaviour. However, some legal experts have cautioned that the changes could lead to more court challenges and longer legal processes.
An official update is expected by August 16, with legislative changes potentially following later this year. Drivers are advised to stay informed about these developments, as they could significantly affect the consequences of failing to stop and report an incident.
