Those caught speeding excessively on the UK’s motorways will face fines of up to £10,000, a four-fold increase on the former penalty. Breaking the speed limit on dual carriageways and other smaller roads will also quadruple – to £4,000.

Using a phone at the wheel will also attract the same penalty, under the new reforms.

The move has been condemned as “draconian” by motoring groups, who say the move could put some drivers off from challenging speeding fines in court – due to the fear of being hit by one of these huge fines.

Offences such as driving without insurance and careless driving will, under the new proposals, be punishable with unlimited fines.

These new powers will be given to magistrates.

The government’s justice minister, Jeremy Wright, said of the proposals: “Financial penalties set at the right level can be an effective way of punishing criminals and deterring them from further offending.”

Mr Wright said magistrates were the “cornerstone” of the country’s justice system and, with these new powers, would be able to better deal with common offences in their local communities.

Critics have argued that the present £2,500 fine is sufficient to deter most motorists, however, they believe that the £10,000 fine is excessive and does not fit the crime. Others have argued that a bigger police presence on the UK’s roads would be a better deterrent to speeding motorists.

Rupert Lipton, director of the National Motorists Action Group, said: “This massive increase is disproportionate and draconian.”

At present, those caught speeding can opt to pay a £60 fine, accept three penalty points on their licence, plus agree to attend a course in speed awareness. If a person wishes to challenge the penalty, they may face six points and a £1,000 fine for speeding on a smaller road, and £2,500 penalty for a motorway offence.

As a provider of insurance for vehicle recovery, here at startrescue.co.uk we’re always keen to know what our customers think of big changes in motoring-related laws. What do you think of the new reforms? Will they make our roads safer? Or are these fines disproportionate and likely to cause the offender significant financial damage?