Careless driving sentences have been toughened up under new rules that came into effect this week with the loss of a professional driving licence now a more immediate threat, solicitors have warned.
The revised guidelines introduce stricter penalties and sharper scrutiny, particularly for those driving for work.
LMP Legal said the new framework replaces the 2017 version and introduces a structured matrix that assesses both driver culpability and resulting harm.
The key changes include driving bans of up to 56 days for mid-level offences – even when there is no injury or intent.
LMP said this meant a single minor misjudgement could suddenly remove a key driver from a haulier’s operation, with little time to plan or react.
Maximum fines have also risen to the equivalent of 250% of weekly income and operating a goods vehicle is now an explicit aggravating factor, meaning lorry drivers are more likely to face harsher penalties.
LMP added that poor vehicle condition and a failure to protect vulnerable road users will also increase the sentencing severity.
The law firm is urging transport companies to review how they prepare drivers to respond to incidents and protect their business from escalating legal exposure.
“These changes raise the bar for legal risk across the fleet sector,” said Charlotte Le Maire, barrister and transport defence specialist at LMP Legal.
“A single lapse such as failing to indicate, tailgating in traffic, or adjusting in-cab tech, can now lead to prosecution, fines, or a driving ban. And drivers don’t need to intend to do wrong to be penalised.”
She added: “For commercial drivers under pressure, or those covering tight delivery schedules, the implications are real.
“Fleets must ensure their policies, driver briefings, and post-incident protocols are up to date, or risk operational disruption and reputational harm.”
