Killer drivers will face up to life in prison under new sentencing rules coming into force this week. Judges will be able to hand down life sentences to dangerous drivers who kill and careless drivers who kill while under the influence of drink or drugs.
The new sentencing regime far exceeds the previous maximum penalty of 14 years. The change comes into effect on Tuesday as a result of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts (PCSC) Act.
The reforms will also create a new offence of causing serious injury by careless driving, meaning those who inflict long-term or permanent injuries also face tougher sentences. Deputy Prime Minister, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice Dominic Raab said: “Too many lives have been lost to reckless behaviour behind the wheel, devastating families.
