Shake-up of speeding fines draws mixed response
The Government’s proposals for a “fairer” system of speeding fines have drawn a mixed response.
The Conservatives have accused the Government of stealing their policies – but not going far enough – and road safety campaigners have expressed concerns about a dilution of the road safety message.
Under the new system, announced by the Transport Secretary Alistair Darling today, those motorists who are caught driving just above the speed limit would face a reduced penalty, whereas the sanction for those well over would be higher.
Penalties would range from £40 and two penalty points to those just over the limit, to £100 and six points for more serious offenders. Pilot projects offering first time offenders speed awareness courses will also be extended nationwide.
Speaking on Wednesday, Mr Darling said: “We are seeking views on a new graduated system of penalties for speeding designed to 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.
“The police would continue to enforce speed limits rigorously and motorists will always need to be aware that speeding is highly dangerous and if they are caught they will face a fine, points on their licences and disqualification if they persist.
Mr Darling’s Shadow, Damian Green, accused the Government of “stealing” his party’s policies. He said: “I am glad that the Government has adopted another Conservative idea on transport. But they should be honest enough to pick up two of our other suggestions, that we should have an independent audit of the position of every speed camera, to make sure they are saving lives and not just making money, and that we should review all speed limits.”
However, the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS) accused the Government of sending “mixed messages” to motorists.
Executive director Robert Gifford, said: “Lowering the number of penalty points for people driving at up to 39 mph in a 30 mph zone sends the wrong message to drivers about the safety and acceptability of driving at this speed.
“In urban areas – where most 30 mph limits are located – driving at even small margins over the speed limit can significantly increase risk to pedestrians, cyclists and drivers themselves.
“Speeding may be a common offence, but the consequences can be fatal. Reducing penalties for speeding fails to reflect the risk that speeding can pose and will not contribute to preventing road casualties.”
Any change to the penalties would have to be approved by Parliament as part of new road safety legislation.
