CARELESS drivers who cause death or serious injury on the roads should face tougher penalties.

According to a new survey, 41% of people questioned said such drivers should be treated as criminals and jailed.

Another 55% thought anyone found guilty should be fined and allowed on the roads again only after retraining and retesting. Only 4% of the 417 people questioned by motorinsurance.co.uk did not think the penalties should be increased.

The maximum sentence for careless driving is nine penalty points and a £2,500 fine. Death by dangerous driving already carries a custodial sentence.