Killer drivers could be given life sentences under rules that come into force this week.
The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act will allow judges to hand down life sentences to dangerous drivers who kill or careless drivers who kill while under the influence of drink or drugs.
The current regime only allows a maximum penalty of 14 years.
Justice Secretary Dominic Raab said: “Too many lives have been lost to reckless behaviour behind the wheel, devastating families.
“We have changed the law so that those responsible will now face the possibility of life behind bars.”
The change comes into effect on Tuesday.
It will also create a new offence – causing serious injury by careless driving, which will be aimed at those who inflict long-term or permanent injury on others.
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Also, new rules will allow judges to grant people with hearing loss the support of sign language interpreters during jury deliberations.
Previously, only the 12 sworn jurors were allowed to go into a deliberation room, effectively preventing people with hearing loss from participating.
Mr Raab added: “The right to be judged by your peers dates back to Magna Carta, and is a cornerstone of our justice system.
“We’re changing the law so that many more deaf people have the opportunity to carry out this important civic duty.”