News
29 April, 2024
Dangerous driving penalty increases to 20 years under new laws
The government has announced a package of tougher penalties for dangerous driving offences that pose a serious threat to public safety.
Under the new reforms, drivers who exhibit reckless disregard by evading police and subsequently cause a crash resulting in death or grievous bodily harm will face a maximum prison sentence of up to 20 years – an increase from the previous 14-year limit.
The new laws introduce an aggravating circumstance specifically targeting offenders who ignore police directions and jeopardise community welfare. In addition to the enhanced penalty for hit-and-run scenarios, the maximum sentence for the dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm will rise from 10 to 14 years. The tougher measures will also apply to youth offenders, ensuring that even younger drivers are held accountable if they engage in dangerous driving, evade law enforcement, and cause serious harm.
These reforms are part of a broader community safety plan being prepared by the government to ensure that Queenslanders feel secure on the roads. Advocates for the new measures have cited the many tragedies that have occurred across the state—from Coolangatta to the Cape—where reckless driving has resulted in the loss of innocent lives.
One such advocate, Claudine Snow, who has lost loved ones to dangerous driving incidents, has met with the Police Minister to push for a stronger response to these offences. The government’s commitment to public safety remains unwavering as it moves to implement these significant changes in the justice system.
