Lifetime ban proposed for hit-and-run drivers

The proposal says that a change in the law will prevent dangerous drivers from hurting others again

Jersey motorists should face a lifetime driving ban if they are involved in a car accident and do not stop to help anyone who is injured, a deputy says.

The 1956 law already makes it an offence for people not to report an accident.

But Deputy Catherine Curtis has lodged a proposal for an amendment with the States of Jersey, saying a lifetime driving ban will stop dangerous drivers from getting back on the road and possibly hurting someone else.

Politicians are due to discuss her proposal on 13 May.

The proposition highlights Jersey's high road casualty rate

"Jersey has the highest road casualty rate in Britain," said Curtis on X.

"There have been terrible tragedies on our roads during the last few years and the road traffic law needs updating.

"I want the roads to be safer, and I want justice for victims and their families."

In the last five years there have been nine fatalities and 242 serious injuries.

The current penalties for causing death by dangerous driving, introduced in 1997, include a maximum of 10 years imprisonment and a minimum of two years driving disqualification.