The UK government is planning a major change to the so-called '6-month rule' for speeding offences. As part of the Department for Transport's Road Safety Strategy, officials are considering amendments to close a loophole that allows some drivers to evade justice.
Current 6-Month Statutory Time Limit
Under existing law, when a speeding or red-light camera captures an offence, the case must be brought before a magistrates' court within six months of the incident. This period includes the time for the registered keeper to provide details of the driver. However, the DfT states that this system is open to abuse, with some individuals using delaying tactics to avoid prosecution.
Proposed Changes
The government proposes that the six-month clock should start only when the driver's details are provided to the authorities. This change aims to prevent offenders from escaping justice by simply delaying their response. The DfT highlighted cases where unlicensed drivers involved in fatal collisions avoided prosecution due to the current time limit.
Extended Time Limit for Serious Offences
For the most serious incidents involving death or serious injury caused by unlicensed, uninsured, or disqualified drivers, the government believes an extended statutory time limit is necessary. This would allow police more time to investigate complex cases and consider charges such as failing to stop.
Increased Penalties for Driving Uninsured or Without a Licence
The Road Safety Strategy also proposes stricter penalties for driving without insurance or a valid licence. Currently, driving without a licence can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and 3-6 penalty points. The DfT argues that those who have never passed a test are as culpable as disqualified drivers, who face up to 12 months in prison. For driving uninsured, the fixed penalty is £300 with 6 points, but the DfT believes this does not reflect the seriousness of the offence or act as a sufficient deterrent.
Consultation and Next Steps
A major consultation on the strategy concluded last week, with responses to be published within three months. The DfT will then move to make the changes law. Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Local Transport Lilian Greenwood MP stated that road deaths remain far too high, with 1,602 fatalities in 2024, and that decisive action is overdue.
