Gaol Threat To Killer Drivers As Road Toll Rises

As another person dies on Ulster's roads, it has emerged that car drivers who kill through careless driving may now be facing as much as five years in jail.

Proposed changes to motoring penalties may also involve maximum £5,000 fines for ignoring police demands to stop.

It will also be an offence to carry certain anti-speed detection devices as part of new measures to tighten road traffic laws.

The announcement is timely with another victim added last night when a man died after being struck by a car in County Tyrone. The accident happened at Curr Road in Beragh, near Omagh. The pedestrian, who was from County Down, was pronounced dead at Craigavon Area Hospital. His name has not yet been released.

The driver of the car was treated for shock at the scene.

Referring to the never-ending death toll on the roads - with 86 people now killed this year - NIO Minister Paul Goggins said: "Too many people are killed or seriously injured on our roads as a result of irresponsible or careless driving.

"The terrible consequences of these actions which can too often lead to loss of life must be addressed and those who commit these dreadful acts must pay for their actions."

Turning to the tougher penalties, he said that unlicensed, disqualified or uninsured drivers who cause death will face increased jail sentences: up to five years.

Police will also be able to tackle offenders riding mini-motorcycles and motorised scooters that are causing annoyance.

Officers will also be given powers to require breath tests at the roadside or in hospital.

Mr Goggins said the proposals would be part of the 2007 Criminal Justice Order.

(BMcC)

See:Roads Claim Two More Lives