Canberra drivers who cause damage to others will face tougher punishments, with the ACT government to introduce a suite of new penalties for dangerous driving.
Among the proposed changes is the introduction of a new offence for negligent driving for conduct that causes actual bodily harm. This would apply when a person receives an injury, such as a black eye or laceration due to negligence.
Drivers charged with the new offence could face a maximum of up to six months in prison, an $8000 fine or both.
Penalties will also be increased for culpable driving, with first-time offenders to face a minimum disqualification period of 12 months, up from six months.
There would also be new laws that give police powers to address unsafe behaviours on e-scooters, which would include driving an e-scooter while intoxicated.
ACT Transport Minister Chris Steel will introduce the new laws to the Legislative Assembly on Thursday. He said the new negligent driving offence would close a gap in protections for road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.
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"Negligent driving can kill or cause serious injury. Everyone needs to exercise care and responsibility to keep other road users safe, including those who don't have the protection of a vehicle around them," he said.
"That's why the government will strengthen the existing hierarchy of offences for negligent driving by adding a new offence for actual bodily harm.
"This offence would apply in circumstances where someone has suffered injuries as a result of negligence on our roads, such as a black eye, lacerations or bruising.
"These are the kinds of injuries that disproportionately affect vulnerable road users, but our bill will strengthen protections for all road users in the process."
