The government has given the police more powers to punish road users who tailgate other drivers or hog the middle lane on motorways.

Officers can now issue £100 fines and three penalty points to careless motorists and it is hoped overall driving standards will improve as a result of the new rules. In some cases, offenders may be encouraged to complete an educational training course.

This is good news for the logistics sector, as middle lane drivers can cause unnecessary delays on motorways, which in turn cost the haulage industry huge sums of money in the long run.

Existing penalties for offences including failing to wear a seatbelt and using a mobile phone while behind the wheel will also rise to £100, the Department for Transport has confirmed.

Road safety minister Stephen Hammond described inconsiderate drivers as a "menace" and feels it is important that police can deal with offenders instantaneously, rather than dragging minor cases through the courts.

"We are also increasing penalties for a range of driving offences to a level which reflects their seriousness and which will ensure that they are consistent with other similar penalty offences," he remarked.