Maximum fines for motorists that break the law could increase by up to 300% under new Government plans, it has been revealed.
The top offence level, which includes motorway speeding, could increase from £2,500 to £10,000. Meanwhile, so-called level three offences, such as using a hand-held mobile phone while driving and speeding on a dual carriageway, could increase from £1,000 to £4,000.
The proposals could also see magistrates having unlimited fining powers for offences where there is currently a maximum of £5,000 of more, such as careless driving or driving without insurance. The Government has now tabled the appropriate legislation to make the change to fine levels.
Currently, for example, drivers that admit to speeding receive a £60 fixed penalty fine and three points on their licence. However, if they challenge the speeding allegation they could be liable for a £1,000 on non-motorway roads or £2,500 on a motorway as well as six points on their licence.
The proposed changes would see: Level 1 fine maximum increase from £200 to £800, Level 2 increases from £500 to £2,000, Level 3 increases from £1,000 to £4,000 and Level 4 increases from £2,500 to £10,000.