Driving Offences

Our driving offence solicitors understand all the complexities of road traffic law. If you have been charged with a driving-related offence, make sure you have experts on your side who know how to defend you and your licence.

Many driving offences can result in your licence being revoked, a substantial fine or even a prison sentence, depending on the seriousness of the offence. If you are worried about losing your licence, we provide legal advice and representation if you are facing prosecution for a driving offence.

Speeding

Driving faster than the speed limit is likely to result in a fixed penalty notice and a fine of £100. The penalty can vary: if you go over the speed limit by 30mph or more, you can expect considerably tougher penalties. Depending on the offence, you may be able to avoid penalty points and a fine by attending a speed awareness course.

Drink Driving

You may be charged with drink driving if you are caught driving, or found in charge of a vehicle, with excess alcohol in your system. Drink driving offences cover more than driving under the influence: you could be charged if you are sitting in the car with the keys, or if you refuse to provide a breath test when asked to do so by the police.

Careless Driving

Careless driving means driving without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other road users. You can be charged with careless driving without causing an accident or injury, but you are likely to face a more serious charge if you do. The most serious offences, such as causing death by careless driving, can result in a driving ban and a lengthy prison sentence.

Dangerous Driving

Dangerous driving is generally defined as driving that falls far below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver, where it would be obvious that driving in that way is dangerous. It can also include driving a vehicle that is in a dangerous condition, even if it was driven in a safe way.

Mobile Phones

Using a mobile phone while driving is highly distracting, which is why it is illegal to make or answer a call at the wheel unless you are using a hands-free device. You can be charged with a mobile phone offence if you use your phone while the engine is running, even if the vehicle is stationary.

Road Rage

Road rage is not a specific offence under UK law, so unlike other road traffic offences it is unlikely to result in penalty points or a driving disqualification on its own. However, this depends on how the road rage is expressed: if it leads one road user to attack another, they could face an assault charge.

Notice of Intended Prosecution

If the police believe you have committed a road traffic offence, they must give you a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP).

Under Section 1 of the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988, you must be warned by a NIP that you may be prosecuted for any of the following offences:

• Dangerous driving
• Careless and inconsiderate driving
• Leaving a vehicle in a dangerous position
• Dangerous cycling
• Careless and inconsiderate cycling
• Failing to comply with the directions of a police officer directing traffic
• Failing to comply with a traffic sign
• Exceeding temporary speed restrictions imposed under Section 14 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984
• Exceeding the speed limit on a special road
• Exceeding a temporary speed limit imposed by order
• Speeding offences generally