Disqualified drivers who cause death or serious injuries on the roads will face tougher prison sentences under a change in the law announced by the justice secretary today.

Chris Grayling said banned drivers will face up to 10 years in prison if they cause death, up from the current maximum of two years.

An offence of causing serious injury by driving while disqualified will also be created, carrying a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment, he said. 

Grayling said the tougher sentences are designed to reflect the impact on victims and their families.

The government plans to change the law ‘shortly’ to introduce the new sentences, which are expected to be implemented in early 2015.

Graying also announced his intention to launch a full review of all driving offences and penalties, ‘to ensure people who endanger lives and public safety are properly punished’.

This will include reviewing offences committed by uninsured and unlicensed drivers.
 
Grayling said: ‘I want to make our roads safer and ensure people who cause harm face tough penalties. Disqualified drivers should not be on our roads for good reason.

‘Those who chose to defy a ban imposed by a court and go on to destroy innocent lives must face serious consequences for the terrible impact of their actions.’