The government is facing calls to introduce mandatory speed limiters in cars to prevent drivers from breaking the law. New data analysed by the RAC reveals that more than 4,000 drivers who have accumulated 12 or more penalty points for speeding offences have escaped being banned from the road.
Public Support for Speed Limiters
According to the RAC, 80 per cent of motorists are calling for mandatory speed limiters for any driver caught excessively speeding. Others suggest a more lenient approach, where the devices would be reserved for those caught speeding multiple times.
DVLA Data Reveals Concerns
A Freedom of Information request from the DVLA shows that 4,154 drivers are still legally permitted to drive despite crossing the threshold for losing their licences through 'totting up'. Under current rules, motorists can be banned if they accrue 12 or more penalty points within three years, resulting in a six-month driving ban before they can apply for a new licence.
The RAC is supporting the Stop Excessive Speeders campaign, which calls on the Labour Party government to give courts the power to order offenders to have technology fitted to their vehicles that prevents them from exceeding the speed limit again.
Proposed Solution: Intelligent Speed Assistance
Eight out of ten respondents said they would support proposals for anyone caught excessively speeding or multiple times to have an 'Intervening Intelligent Speed Assistance' device fitted to their car. This device would prevent the driver from exceeding the speed limit.
Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, described the data as 'very concerning' and urged the government to consider giving courts the power to order repeat and excessive speeders to have Intervening ISA devices fitted to all their vehicles. 'This will save lives and reduce the number of speed-related collisions on our roads - something which completely aligns with the casualty reduction targets listed in the Road Safety Strategy,' he said.
A spokesperson for the Stop Excessive Speeders campaign added: 'Excessive speed remains one of the leading causes of death on our roads, and the public clearly recognises the need for action. What our research shows is that people instinctively understand the link between tackling dangerous driving and saving lives. Intervening Intelligent Speed Assistance is a practical, proportionate solution, targeting repeat offenders while allowing the vast majority of drivers to go about their daily lives without disruption.'
