Record number of motorists escape licence points and fines despite speeding in 2021

Chris Evans says he was ‘done again’ for speeding

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

More than 1.5 million drivers took speed awareness and other training courses in 2021. This option is given to motorists to allow them to avoid fines and having points added to their driving licence.

Figures from the National Driver Offender Retraining scheme show that 1.5 million licence holders completed a course in 2021 as an alternative to a fine and possible penalty points.

This is up from 1.3 million during the previous year and represents the highest annual total on record – although these figures have only been held since 2014.

Of the 1.5 million training courses attended last year, 86 percent were speed awareness sessions, according to the data accessed by PA.

These are offered to motorists caught exceeding a limit, but within an “acceptable” range.

The aim of the courses is to help people identify speed limits and recognise the potential consequences of driving too fast. 

However, only those who haven’t attended a speed awareness course in the previous three years are given the option to take one.

These courses generally cost between £73 and £95 and help drivers escape having points added to their licence and minimum fines of £100.

Drivers cannot complete more than one course within three years.

DON’T MISS
New car tax changes will hit ‘hard-working residents’ [WARNING]
Driver attacked by ‘vehicle police’ neighbour in printed note [SHOCKING]
Sadiq Khan looks to reduce car use as road project may be scrapped [INSIGHT]

Most courses are run by private companies and usually last two hours and 45 minutes.

Courses are put forward to drivers at the discretion of police forces across the UK and most carried out last year were held virtually due to the pandemic.

Steve Gooding, director of motoring research charity the RAC Foundation, commented on the figures.

He said: “On the face of it, the increase in the number of people doing courses indicates that our driving habits have got worse despite the Covid-induced travel restrictions of last year.

Save 10% on your MOT

It’s Kwik Fits’ Midsommer Madness sale and you can take 10% off your MOT Test with the UK’s #1 MOT tester – just click the link to book online.


Source: Read Full Article