The Crown Prosecution Service is to take a "tougher line" on cases of death caused by dangerous driving.

A CPS report found that some prosecutors in England and Wales were using the charge of death by careless driving when the more serious charge of death by dangerous driving was more appropriate.

The report was published on the same day a poll revealed 70% of Britons think the drink-drive limit should be lowered.

The charity Brake called on the government to bring the UK into line with the majority of European countries, where the legal limit for driving with alcohol in the blood is less.

We need to be consistent in our approach to these cases Sir David Calvert-Smith QC

The report by the CPS inspectorate found not all prosecutors had responded to an increase in the readiness of juries to convict on the charge of causing death by dangerous driving.

Director of Public Prosecutions Sir David Calvert-Smith QC said in a response that CPS lawyers would be advised to take a tougher line in cases.

"We need to be consistent in our approach to these cases, which can devastate families who lose their loved ones as a result of a car crash," he said.

However, the report found that in the majority of cases involving traffic deaths the quality of casework and decision-making was high.

UK 'out of step'

A nationwide scheme to improve services for victims' families was particularly praised.

Chief inspector Stephen Wooler said: "I am pleased by the level of commitment that inspectors found, to handling cases involving fatalities out of road traffic offences with special care and sensitivity."

Brake, which commissioned the poll on drink-driving with insurers Direct Line, urged the government to reconsider its decision earlier this year not to lower the drink-drive limit.

Reducing the limit would save lives Brake

In the majority of European countries the limit is 50mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood, rather than the 80mg allowed in the UK.

In the survey of 3,515 people, more than seven in 10 wanted to see that limit lowered.

The charity says the poll proves the government is out of step with the public on the issue.

Brake chief executive Mary Williams said: "The vast majority of drivers support the campaign to end deaths and injuries caused by drinking and driving.

"However, while people continue to die because of drunk drivers, the government should do more. Reducing the limit would save lives."