Driver with 22 points on licence still on road in Doncaster area

More than 35,000 motorists in the Doncaster post code area have been handed penalty points, with more than 150 of them over the usual 12-point limit for a driving ban, it has been revealed.

Statistics released by the Institute of Advanced Motorists show some 37,843 drivers have points against their name – a number which has been branded ‘appalling’ by a road safety charity.

The majority, 29,489 people, have between one and three points, while 1,382 people have between seven and 11 points.

In accordance with government rules, those with nine or more would have to go to court because of their offences.

Some drivers risked disqualification by racking up more than 12 points; a total of 153 people have between 12 and 21 points. If 12 points or more points are gained within three years, drivers face being banned.

One driver had 22 points.

The shocking research includes motorists who live in postcode area DN1 to DN41.

The organisation also revealed that, collectively, these drivers will have paid an extra £1,755,381 on their insurance premiums because of their penalty points.

Mike Bristow, of Brake, the Road Safety Charity said: “It is appalling that risky repeat offenders in Doncaster are being allowed to continue driving with as many as 22 points on their licence.

“These irresponsible individuals have consistently shown disregard for the law and the lives of other road users. Allowing these drivers to stay on our roads puts innocent members of the public in danger and makes a mockery of the points system.

“Brake calls on the government to address this situation urgently and ensure all drivers who reach 12 points get automatic bans. Drivers who clock up 12 points have had ample warning to stop breaking the law and avoid disqualification.”

A spokesman for the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership said they were aware that there are motorists across the country and in South Yorkshire who are driving with excess points on their licences.

“Each case is dealt with and determined on an individual basis by the courts,” said the spokesman.

“After hearing the facts, it is up to the courts to decide on whether a driver should be allowed to keep his or her licence. Obviously, if this decision is made it is entirely correct that the individual will pay a premium on the vehicle insurance.

“However, we would urge all drivers to take responsibility for the safety of themselves, their passengers and other road users and respect the needs of others who are using the roads.”

Penalty points must stay on drivers record for four to 11 years, depending on the offence or offences they have committed.

Drivers can gain penalty points on their licence for a number of offences, ranging from three points for leaving a vehicle in a dangerous position to a potential maximum 11 points for causing death or serious injury by dangerous driving.

Sarah Sillars, IAM chief executive officer, said drivers should consider others safety, and their finances, when they get behind the wheel.

She said: “If people don’t understand the safety dangers of the offence they have committed which has earned them the penalty points, they should certainly understand the damage it will do to their bank balances.

“And someone with multiple points and fines is paying through the nose for car insurance; just think what other things they could use that money for. Driving safely could put thousands back into your pocket.”

For more information about driving licences and penalty points, visit www.gov.uk/browse/driving