Drivers want tougher justice for traffic offenders, according to a new survey.
Nearly eight in 10 motorists (78%) are in favour of fines of £200 or more for offences such as speeding, using a mobile phone or careless driving, according to the research by insurer Direct Line and road safety charity Brake.
Half of respondents (47%) think fines should be £500 or more, while almost a quarter supported a £90 fine – the increase from the current £60 that’s proposed by the Government – to deter drivers taking illegal risks on roads.
People who use loopholes to keep their licence were also assailed, with more than three quarters (78%) thinking it is wrong that some drivers who accumulate 12 points are allowed to dodge a ban under an exceptional hardship clause.
Last year, BusinessCar reported that 43% of drivers that clock up 12 points are not being disqualified, following from the same organisations.
Andy Goldby, director of motor underwriting and pricing at Direct Line, said: “The current levels of fines for speeding, careless driving or using a mobile phone whilst behind the wheel, are comparable to parking penalties.
“A greater deterrent is needed to stop those who think it is perfectly acceptable to break the law and endanger lives on the roads.”
Ellen Booth, Brake senior campaigns officer said: “The Government must listen to the public, who recognise that far tougher penalties are needed to stop risky, selfish behaviour at the wheel and that we need to take dangerous repeat offenders off the roads.”
Follow BusinessCar on TWITTER.
