Speeding drivers face ban for 2 offences

By Tim Castle

LONDON (Reuters) - Drivers caught going more than 20 mph over the speed limit could lose their licence after just two offences under government proposals published on Thursday.

Ministers will also consider pleas from road safety campaigners to reduce the amount of alcohol permitted for drivers as part of a three month consultation on improving road safety.

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said the measures were aimed at reducing the 2,946 deaths and 30,000 serious injuries on Britain's roads last year.

"Notwithstanding these are the best figures we have ever had, we know that we can do more and that we can reduce the numbers of people being killed and seriously injured," he told BBC radio.

"That means looking at speeding, drink driving, drug driving, careless driving and people not wearing seatbelts."

Speed is a factor in 29 percent of all road deaths, he said, while 20 percent are caused by drivers with illegal drugs in their bloodstream.

Those caught over the speed limit by a significant amount -- by 20 mph in most cases -- could be given a six point fine, twice the current penalty.

That would mean them hitting the 12 point trigger for an automatic ban if they repeat the offence within three years.  Continued...