Causing bodily injury or death by careless use while speeding or incorrectly overtaking is now a much more serious offence and carries a 3 year maximum prison term, $10,000 fine and a minimum 1 year disqualification.

The sentencing requirements for those convicted of drink driving related offences have now become more harsh.  While the maximum sentence for a first or second conviction of drink driving remains the same as under the previous law, the new laws have increased the maximum sentences for those convicted for a third or subsequent time.

For a third drink driving conviction, the maximum sentence is two years prison or a $6,000 fine and a minimum of one year disqualification.

If a person is convicted of a driving offence involving alcohol or drug use, and has previously been convicted within 5 years for a similar matter, the Court must make an Order requiring them to attend an Assessment Centre and disqualify them until the Director of Land Transport removes the disqualification.

The Police now have extended powers and can suspend a driver’s licence for 28 days for travelling 40 kilometres per hour over the speed limit.