The average sentence for causing death by dangerous driving is just four years – 62% shorter than the average sentence for manslaughter, according to road safety charity the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists).

The average sentence length of manslaughter is 6.6 years, while those sent to prison for causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving are being given an average sentence of 1.3 years and causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs has an average sentence of 4.35 years.

IAM also say that one in every two people (53%) convicted of causing death or bodily harm through driving offences were sentenced to immediate custody (260 people) in 2011. This has dropped from the 83% sentenced to immediate custody in 2001.

Fines for drink driving are also lower in real terms than they were ten years ago. In 2001, the average fine for drink driving was £203 - the average £240 fine in 2011 was equivalent to just £178 in 2001 prices - a 12.3% decrease.

The average fine for careless driving is £138, 27 per cent less in real terms than it was in 2001. Dangerous driving is the only area with tougher fines. The average fine is £518 - 30 per cent more in real terms than in 2001.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "We recently discovered that the number of prosecutions for motoring offences had fallen. Now it is clear that drivers are also receiving short sentences for some of the most serious driving offences.

"Magistrates are handing out fines for drink driving that are less than five per cent of the maximum amount possible, giving the message that drink driving only warrants a slap on the wrist. Only sentences that reflect the seriousness of the crime will act as a proper deterrent."
 

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