Higher penalty points for driving offences

Failing to display a learner plate could soon attract penalty points for learner drivers under proposals approved by the Cabinet in the Road Traffic Bill 2012

Errant drivers could soon be facing harsher penalties for offences such as speeding, driving without a seatbelt and using a mobile phone while driving.

The measures are contained in the Road Traffic Bill 2012, which was approved by the Cabinet today.

Under the proposals, penalty points for these offences would rise from two points to three, or five upon conviction.

There are also a number of new measures proposed for learner and newly qualified drivers as part of the Graduated Driver Licensing system.

Among them are that newly qualified, or novice, drivers would have to display an N plate for the first two years after they pass their test.

Both categories of inexperienced drivers would be automatically disqualified after six penalty points rather than the normal 12.

For the first time, learner drivers behind the wheel without a qualified driver accompanying them will be subject to two penalty points, rising to four on conviction.

Learner and novice drivers will also receive two points on their licence for failing to display the L or N plate.

Proposals in the new Bill will also allow a blood sample to be drawn from an unconscious driver involved in a serious collision, although he will have to give consent for it to be tested.

And other tests for impaired driving, such as walking a straight line and pupil dilation, will be allowed to be used as evidence in court.

The Bill also allows for vehicles deemed unroadworthy by the NCT to be banned and for local authorities to provide parking and charging bays for electric vehicles and for car clubs.

Transport Minister Leo Varadkar said: ‘Ireland is currently ranked sixth in the EU for road safety. I want us to become the safest country in Europe.’

He hopes to bring the proposals to the Oireachtas early in the new year.

Visit the Department of Transport website for further details.

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