The Consequences
The seriousness of a dangerous driving offence will doubtless result in a lengthy ban, possible custodial sentence, community based punishment, a heavy fine and potential loss of job or livelihood.
Contact our Dangerous Driving solicitors today for legal representation
About Dangerous Driving
A person is deemed to be driving dangerously when they are showing an unacceptable level of competence and care on the road. This can include one or a number of the following:
- Speeding
- Driving aggressively
- Ignoring traffic lights and road signs
- Overtaking dangerously
- Driving under the influence of drink or drugs
- Driving in an unstable condition, e.g. injured
- Using a vehicle which is deemed unfit
- Being unnecessarily distracted, e.g. on the phone, talking, etc.
The vast majority of cases can be defended or arguments could be advanced to negotiate a lower charge with a lesser penalty. If successfully defended, the costs may also be recovered from court.
In one case, a client was facing charges and a 12-month disqualification due to overtaking across solid double white line markings in the middle of the motorway. The prosecution were unable to establish that the line marking was complete and visible at the time of the alleged offence. Our client was successfully defended by our dangerous driving solicitors and acquitted.
The only difference between the basic offence of careless driving and death by careless driving, is the end result which is often out of the driver’s control. There is a large difference is terms of sentence in fatal cases as death by careless driving can attract up to 5 years custodial sentence. If the driving is careless and the driver is over the prescribed alcohol limit or under the influence of drugs, this can increase to 14 years.
Uninsured or Unlicensed
Drivers should be aware that if they are involved in a fatal collision, they can now receive a custodial sentence if they are uninsured/unlicensed, even where their driving does not fall below the standard of a reasonably competent driver. A driver may be considered unlicensed in circumstances where, for example, they have a full entitlement to drive but have simply not sent their licence to the DVLA for previous points to be added.
Speak to us
To speak to a dangerous driving solicitor about the allegations against you, or for help and advice on charges you are facing, contact DrivingOffence.com today on 0800 069 6000, or fill in our contact form and we will get back to you as soon as possible. With offices in Manchester, we are able to offer our services to anyone in the UK.