15/02/2008
Tough New Driving Laws Come Into Force
At the beginning of this year the government brought in new laws relating to the use of hand held mobile phones whilst driving now as from 24th September 2007 new driving offences and tougher penalties have came into force.
The new laws involve a substantial increase in maximum fines for offences including:-
• Failing to stop if requested by Police -increased from £1,000 to £5,000.
• Careless Driving -increased from £2,500 to a £5,000.
• Failure to wear a seat belt-increased form £250 to £500.
One of the major impacts of the new laws is that failing to identify a driver when a notice is sent through the post (mainly in relation to speeding offences) will now attract 6 penalty points, rather than 3.
The new provisions also affect anyone involved in an accident and have had blood taken whilst unconscious and then refuses to allow that blood test to be used. They can be prosecuted for failure to provide a specimen.
The Act also covers the issue of vehicles that are in a dangerous condition. If convicted of two such charges within a three-year period there is now a mandatory 6 months disqualification. It is essential therefore that Sole Traders and Partnerships ensure their vehicles are safe and roadworthy as they are responsible in law and could have their licences endorsed if their drivers use vehicles in dangerous conditions.
So the message is drivers beware or face serious consequences!
Sarah Williams is an Associate solicitor in the Crime Department at Watkins & Gunn Solicitors and can be contacted on 01495 241935 |
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