May 16, 2023
Flee the Police lose your ride
Justice and Associate Transport Minister Kiritapu Allan has introduced, ‘ The Land Transport (Road Safety) Amendment Bill into Parliament, and once passed will mean drivers can be disqualified for longer, have their vehicle taken away for good, or the owner of the car could have their vehicle impounded if they intentionally withhold information which could help Police track down the driver of a fleeing vehicle.
“Fleeing drivers put innocent lives at risk every day. Those who recklessly attempt to evade the law need to be held to account and we’re ensuring there are increased and serious consequences for this behaviour,” says Minister Allan.
” If you’re involved in a fleeing driver incident, then your ride can be locked up for 6 months.”
” If you are convicted, then your vehicle will be forfeited, so basically sold off.”
“We’re increasing penalties for loss of Licence and if you’re someone that’s involved with concealing the identity of someone who’s nicked a car then we’re giving the Police the ability to have your car detained as well.” says Minister Allan.
The legislation contains a safeguard that ensures vehicle owners who can prove their car was stolen at the time it was impounded will be able to get it back.
This bill is one of a suite of measures focusing on tackling crime, many with a focus on youth offending.
The latest statistics show us the measures are working well, with 82 percent of children referred to Kotahi te Whakaaro programme not reoffending.
The Land Transport (Road Safety) Amendment Bill will have its first reading shortly and will be passed before the election.