Stealth plates let drivers dodge cameras. An MP proposes £1000 fines and vehicle seizure to stop dangerous racers.
Sarah Coombes wants to stop stealth plates. She spoke about her plans to Parliament. She wants to fine drivers £1,000 for using them. Also, she wants six penalty points on their license. Her bill could seize vehicles. It might also disqualify offenders.
She spoke after families suffered losses. Dangerous driving causes many problems now. Most people drive safely every day. Some people use roads as racetracks. They risk lives with “ghost” plates. These plates help them avoid getting caught.
Racers cause problems in West Bromwich. They gather on Friday and Saturday nights. Authorities struggle to catch drivers using these plates. Ghost plates look normal to people.
They have a reflective material. This coating hides them from infrared cameras. People can buy these plates cheaply online. Using them only carries a small fine. The fine is less than a speeding ticket. Coombes wants tougher penalties for using them.
She suggests a £1,000 fine would help. She wants six penalty points, at least. She also wants vehicle seizure. Licence disqualification may work, too. Coombes states drivers have avoided detection before. Now, she wants to crack down on them. The bill gets a second look on March 7.
The government wants to reduce road deaths. They are working on a new road safety plan. Ministers will share details later.