Tasmania has this week approved new laws to deter dangerous drivers.
The new legislation is aimed at reducing road trauma and fatalities in Tasmania. The acting Attorney-General of Tasmania, Matthew Groom, said dangerous driving would not be tolerated in the Apple Isle.
"I am very pleased the Government's legislation to crack down on dangerous driving has today passed the Legislative Council," said Groom.
"Dangerous driving is a scourge that can result in lives being lost and families being torn apart, and these strong laws will send the right message that it will not be tolerated on our roads."
Instead of being lumped into "Traffic Act" legislation, dangerous driving is now part of the "Criminal Code Act" in Tasmania. Therefore, the maximum punishment exacted for a first offense rises from two years in prison to 21 years.
Another ramification of 'dangerous driving' moving to the criminal code act means that it is an indictable offence, and goes to the Supreme Court now, "better reflecting the seriousness of the offence," says Groom.
Other changes include:
>> An increase of one year to the maximum sentence applicable where an individual is found guilty of negligent driving causing death
>> An increase of six months to the maximum sentence applicable where an individual is found guilty of negligent driving causing grievous bodily harm
>> Allowing alternative convictions for negligent driving causing death or grievous bodily harm where an offender is charged with dangerous driving causing death or grievous bodily harm and the offence is not proved, provided there is sufficient evidence to prove the alternative offence.
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