Motorists who break the law will face stricter penalties as new road laws come into effect – with some three-point offences increasing to six.

The Government is clamping down on bad driving with tougher fines for careless motorists and those refusing police stop requests.

The changes are in response to public concern over victims of dangerous driving.

Motorists who fail to provide their identity after being flashed by a camera will face six points on their license – up from three.

Now the maximum fine for careless driving has gone up from £2,500 to £5,000 and all seat belt wearing offences will remain subject to the existing £500 maximum fine.

If someone is found not guilty of manslaughter or culpable homicide, new measures can find them guilty of other offences, such as death by dangerous driving.

The new rules also close a loophole regarding motorists who cause death by careless driving while under the influence of drink or drugs.

Finally, drivers who have a blood test while unconscious, but refuse permission when they are conscious again, can be prosecuted in the same way as drivers who refuse a test.

The Government held a public consultation in 2005 following a review of existing laws, where police, judges and road safety campaigners spoke out.

Road Safety Minister, Jim Fitzpatrick, said: “The Road Safety Act is key to the Government's efforts to tackle bad and irresponsible driving.

“The changes coming into force are another important step in implementing this package of measures.”

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