Announced earlier this month, the change means that disqualified drivers will now face up to 10 years in prison – five times the current maximum sentence – if they cause death, and up to four years’ imprisonment if they cause serious injuries.
Justice Secretary Chris Grayling also announced his intention to launch a full review of all driving offences and penalties, to ensure people who endanger lives and public safety are properly punished. This will include reviewing offences committed by uninsured and unlicensed drivers.
According to a poll held by TrackCompare.co.uk in the week after the announcement, 96% of fleet operators back the tougher prison sentences.
Kjell Anderton, a TrackCompare director, said: ‘We thought most fleet operators would back the proposals, but the figure of almost 100% was completely unexpected.
‘It just goes to show that professional drivers are as keen to support road safety as the rest of the population.’
Anderton added: ‘People felt strongly about this issue and left a range of comments. Although one told us two years was fair, most said they backed the tougher sentences.
‘Their messages ranged from “Lock them up!” and “10 years isn’t enough; way too lenient” to “It will help reduce deaths, definitely” and “We should be tougher on those caught driving whilst disqualified before they kill.”’
