On the spot fines for careless drivers

Police will get powers to give on-the-spot fines to careless drivers, rather than taking them to court, as part of a government strategy to make Britain's roads safer.

Ministers say motorists who tail-gate, undertake or cut others up often go unpunished and that introducing instant penalties would be more efficient.

Offenders would get a fine of at least £80 and three points on their licence. Currently motorists who have driven in a careless manner have to be prosecuted through the courts.

The proposal was included in the government’s new road safety strategy for England, Scotland and Wales.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said it would also include a clampdown on drug-driving and the closing of loopholes that allow people to escape drink-driving charges.

Disqualified drivers would have to undergo retraining, and possibly take another test, before they got their licence back.

Courts would be encouraged to make more use of their powers to seize vehicles for the most serious offences.

There will be support for new drivers who need to hone their driving skills, and wider range of retraining and education courses for cases of less serious offences.

A DfT spokesman said: "By giving the police the tools to deal with those who present the greatest danger to others we can make our roads even safer.

"While seeking to do everything possible to tackle the most dangerous drivers, the strategy will also help the responsible majority to improve their driving.

"This is the government's twin approach to improving road safety."

For more information
Web: www.dft.gov.uk