Speeding fines set to rise

From 24 April 2017 some drivers can expect to receive significantly higher fines for speeding.

The changes relate to more serious speeding offences and come as the result of changes in the sentencing guidelines rather than in UK road traffic laws. The maximum fine for speeding will remain at £1,000 (or £2,500 for motorway offences). In addition drivers will receive between three and six penalty points unless a period of disqualification is ordered.

When a driver is convicted of speeding in the Magistrates’ Court (or on appeal in the Crown Court), the Court considers the speed limit in force and the degree by which the limit has been exceeded to determine within which Band any offence falls.

The Band for the offence determines the starting point for any fine and is linked to the driver’s disposable weekly income. The Court adjusts any fine upwards or downwards according to the aggravating features and the mitigating features of the case. For example, the Court will consider speeding near a school or carried out in a commercial vehicle as an aggravating feature.

From 24 April there will be three starting points: Band A offences – 50% of weekly disposable income; Band B offences – 100% of weekly disposable income; Band C offences – 150% of weekly disposable income. Previously the maximum was 100% of disposable weekly income.

The table below shows, for example, how a driver exceeding a speed limit of 50mph by travelling at 75mph or more will now receive a fine based around 150% of weekly disposable income. A driver exceeding 100mph on a motorway will also be dealt with in this way. Drivers should consider what that might mean for their pockets if prosecuted and convicted.

The above does not affect fixed penalties for speeding which will continue to be dealt with by way of a £100 penalty and 3 penalty points.

This is a very simple version of the new procedure and you should take formal advice about any individual case. Penalty points and disqualification can in many case be avoided by taking such advice. Road traffic legislation contains very specific provisions that can be used to avoid driving bans and the imposition of points – often these are not deployed when they could be, leading to unnecessary penalties being imposed.

For more information, advice and representation relating to speeding and all road traffic and road transport offences contact Tim Ridyard on 01284 544210.