Justice Secretary Jack Straw has called for an increase to the maximum sentence for dangerous driving. Currently the offence carries a maximum sentence of two years imprisonment but under Mr Straw’s proposals that could increase to five.
According to the BBC, the proposals follow a campaign by the parents of toddler Cerys Edwards. Cerys was aged just 11 months when she was struck down by a car travelling more than 70 mph in a 30 mph zone. The driver was sentenced to two years for his crime but served just six months.
Cerys was left paralysed following the incident, which occurred in 2006, and has needed round the clock supervision since then. Mr Straw believes that reckless drivers who cause others serious injuries should get tougher punishments.
Road safety charity Brake has welcomed the proposals, but they feel that the proposed maximum sentence is not long enough. Campaign officer Ellen Booth has lobbied for the creation of a charge of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, stating that it is “urgently needed”.
It is evident that the government are looking to implement tougher sentencing and this will hopefully work well not only as a punishment but also as a deterrent to other drivers who may think twice about the consequences of their actions. The circumstances of Cerys accident, where the driver, Mr Antonio Bopara, was travelling at more than twice the speed limit, is an example of a flagrant disregard for the law and the welfare of others. It serves to highlight the problems with the current sentencing system when someone who has displayed such belligerence towards the rules of the road and caused terrible injuries to someone, can get away with only six months in prison.