Dangerous driving - when car trouble is afoot

Penalties Associated with Dangerous Driving

According to UK road traffic laws, the term dangerous driving and the associated driving offences fall into two distinct categories. In one sense, anyone at the wheel of a vehicle can be considered a dangerous driver if their ability to drive safely falls well below the standards which are set by road traffic laws. In another sense, if the vehicle the person is driving is judged to be dangerous or illegally on the road then they can also be charged for a dangerous driving due to the danger this may pose to other motorists.  

It is important to note that charges that are associated with dangerous driving are always considered a lot more serious than the majority of other driving offences that exist according to road traffic laws. Even if you have cautioned for a dangerous driving offence, it is important to seek the possible legal representation from a solicitor specialising in road traffic law in case you are required to attend an interview. A charge for dangerous driving is also particularly serious due to the very real possibility of being sentenced to a prison term.

If you are caught and charged for a dangerous driving offence, under UK road traffic laws you may be subject to a maximum prison sentence of six years, a £5000 pound fine and a driving ban at a Magistrates Court. However, if your case is brought before the Crown Court this sentence can be up to two years with an unlimited fine along with a mandatory disqualification of your license.

This sentence could also be dramatically increased according to road traffic laws if the offender has caused a death by dangerous driving. In such cases, the penalty for an offense of this nature carries a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine as well as a 2 year driving suspension before they may reapply for their license.

There are a variety of different offences which are covered by the term dangerous driving, some examples include:

• ignoring speed limits/driving unnecessarily fast
• driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• knowingly driving a dangerous vehicle
• deliberate and dangerous distraction on the part of the driver, such as using a mobile phone or a similar device
• unnecessarily aggressive driving

Due to the frequent nature of dangerous driving offence in the UK , solicitors specialising in this area is often in high demand. If you are involved with an incident of dangerous driving, it is important that you seek adequate legal representation as soon as possible. Alternatively, if you have been injured as a result of a dangerous driving incident that wasn’t your fault, a solicitor who specialises in road traffic laws may able to assist you in claiming compensation for any injuries that you may have suffered.