British motorists could be hit with fines for speeding or running red lights several years after the alleged offence, under a major legal overhaul being planned by the government.
What is the Proposed Law Change?
According to reports, the Labour Party is planning to abolish the current six-month statutory time limit for initiating legal action over speeding offences. Under the existing system, prosecuting authorities must issue a court summons to an alleged offender within six months of the incident.
The government argues this rule is "open to abuse and delaying tactics" and can allow offenders to avoid justice. The proposed change would mean the six-month clock would only start ticking once the police have successfully identified the driver of the vehicle involved in the offence.
Criticism from a Top Motoring Lawyer
The plans have drawn sharp criticism from prominent motoring lawyer Nick Freeman, known as "Mr Loophole". Speaking to The Telegraph on Friday, January 9, 2026, Freeman labelled the move a "lame excuse to cover for their own inefficiencies".
"The only people abusing this system are the prosecuting authorities," he stated. Freeman emphasised that a time limitation is essential for a fair legal process, allowing people to genuinely remember who was driving. "We don't want people to be prosecuted for a red light offence three years later," he warned, urging the authorities to improve their efficiency instead.
Government and Ministerial Comments
Labour's Transport Minister, Lillian Greenwood, who also serves as the road safety minister, defended the rationale behind the review. In comments to Times Radio, she stated the new rules were not intended to stop the public from "having a great night out."
"What we're just saying is don't take your car," she said. "So that might mean that, you know, some places you'll be able to take a bus or a taxi. In other places, you're going out with a group of mates, one of you agrees to be the designated driver."
A Department for Transport spokeswoman confirmed the plans are still under review, stating: "This consultation will seek all views before any decisions are made."
