There are a number of different laws in the UK which govern the way that we drive. Within these laws there are a number of different rules and regulations which set out the offences that constitute dangerous or careless driving.
Dangerous Driving
Being convicted of dangerous driving carries a mandatory 12 month disqualification from driving. It is not possible to commute this ban if you are convicted. Those who are convicted of more serious incidents of dangerous driving may also be issued with a community order or a custodial sentence. Prison sentences can last for up to 2 years. Causing death by dangerous driving can be punished by up to 14 years in prison. If you have been notified that you are being prosecuted for Dangerous Driving, then it is important that you get in contact with a legal representative who specialises in the defence of driving offence cases.
Our team will study your case to see if it is possible to build a defence against the charges. It is often possible to achieve a full acquittal by building a strong defence based on the circumstances which surround the alleged offence. If we do not believe that it is possible to achieve a full acquittal in your case, we will work to try to get the allegations reduced from dangerous driving offences to careless driving charges.
Careless Driving
Careless driving cannot be punished by a prison sentence; however careless drivers can be issued with a fine of up to £5000. Convicted persons may also be given 3 – 9 penalty points on their licence. Depending on the circumstance of the driving and the severity of the offence, the Courts also have the discretion to issue a driving ban.
If it is not possible to get a full acquittal for careless driving charges, we will seek to argue for the minimum possible penalty for the offence, based on the alleged circumstances. If your livelihood stands to suffer because of a driving ban or if a ban would put you at risk from disproportionate hardship, then it may be possible to convince the Courts not to issue a ban.