Community News - Up to 20 years for dangerous driving

The Miles Labor Government has passed new laws in the Queensland Parliament to provide tough penalties for those who show reckless disregard for the directions of police and the welfare of other people in the community.

Under the new laws people who drive dangerously, evade police, and then become involved in a crash that causes death or grievous bodily harm will face up to 20 years in prison.

This is a new penalty, and stems from the determined and heartfelt advocacy of a Queenslander, Claudine Snow, who lost loved ones in tragic circumstances, and subsequently met with the Police Minister a number of times to express her views.

Claudine’s advocacy has played a key role in the development of this legislation. The new law will be known as Susan’s Law, in honour of Claudine’s mother..

In addition, the maximum penalty for dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm will increase from 10 to 14 years.

This new circumstance of aggravation will also apply to youth offenders who drive dangerously, evade police and cause death or grievous bodily harm.