Drivers causing death by dangerous driving could be sentenced to life
The Ministry of Justice have this week published a consultation document relating to penalties caused by dangerous driving. It states that those who speed, street race or drive whilst using a mobile phone, should face the same sentences as those people who are charged with manslaughter.
Their proposal also includes those under the influence of drink and drugs having sentences increased from 14 years to life imprisonment.
‘The consultation, which closes on 1 February 2017, “delivers on the government’s pledge to consider the sentencing powers available to the courts for the most serious driving offences”, the department said.’
Serious injury by careless driving
There are also proposals that create a new offence that causes serious injury by careless driving. This would be to have a maximum sentence of three years. Also to increase the minimum driving bans for those convicted of causing death.
The clear message is that the ministers want the punishment to fit the crime. Whatever the cause of death, the defendant will face the consequences.
A recent campaign has been held around the use of mobile phones in vehicles. This followed the sentencing of the lorry driver who killed a family of four when trying to change the music on his phone.
Safety when driving
My message as a health and safety professional is to simply not use it, unless your vehicle is safely parked. Consider the following points:
- Develop a mobile phone policy.
- Prevent use when the vehicle is moving.
- Indicate the need to pull over when safe to use the phone.
- Let the phone go to the answer phone facility for incoming calls.
- Never read or text on the phone when in stationary traffic.
- Always follow the Highway Code and the Road Traffic Act.
- Perform a risk assessment where there is a hands-free or voice activated facility within the vehicle.
The idea is to prevent the driver losing concentration and focus away from the road.
Many drivers can be seen on our roads ignoring the law on mobile phones. We often see drivers speaking into their phone either held at their ear or on the loud speak facility. We also know about road incidents caused by drivers texting/looking at social media/changing music etc. As it can be proven what they were doing at the time of the incident.
Employers could have more responsibility
The recent campaign advised drivers to put their phone in the boot or at least out of sight to prevent being tempted to use it. So, if the new consultation gets passed in February, it may mean that employers could have even more responsibility for all their workforce when they are driving.
If you would like a bespoke Drivers Policy contact us on 01455 852028 or email sales@questcover.com Alternatively if you require further help and support with health and safety or HR outsourcing, please get in touch.
