On-the-spot fines for careless drivers

Careless drivers will face new on-the-spot fixed penalties of three points and a £100 fine under plans to be announced today.

Motorists who don’t look or check their mirrors before manoeuvring will be dealt with instantly using new police powers without having to go through the courts. The new fine will range from £80 to £100.

Transport Secretary Philip Hammond is due to give a written statement to MPs today explaining the proposals before they go through Parliament.

He will also announce plans for those who make minor transgressions through genuine mistake to be offered training instead of prosecution.

A DfT spokesman said: “By giving police the tools to deal with those who present the greatest danger to others we can make our roads safer.

“The strategy will also help the responsible majority to improve their driving.”