A poll carried out by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has found that 85 percent of drivers believe fines do not tackle careless driving effectively, and 90 percent think they should have the option to pay for training over receiving penalty points.

The poll of 1,900 motorists found that 40 percent of drivers believe training would be a more effective way of dealing with careless drivers, while 33 percent thought a verbal warning from a police officer would suffice.

Respondents felt that serious offences should be tackled more robustly, with 77 percent recommending offenders should have their cars seized - a move that has been effective in tackling uninsured drivers on the UK's roads - and 59 percent suggesting disqualified drivers should retake their test.

Simon Best, the IAM's chief executive, said: "This poll shows broad support for the government's road safety strategy, but that fixed penalty notices are not popular. The vast majority of crashes are caused by driver error, they are not deliberate - fining drivers is punitive and does not improve driving skills. Driver quality is the key issue in improving road safety. This poll recognises that driving is a skill that needs refreshing and updating. More courses to address poor driving will make our roads safer."

Russell Campbell - 2 Jun 2011