Offences
A few tips to keep you on the straight and narrow
- Dangerous driving. Maximum punishment: 1 Year Driving Ban and up to 2 years in prison + unlimited fine.
- (a) the way he drives falls far below what would be expected of a competent and careful driver
(b) it would be obvious to a competent and careful driver that driving in that way would be dangerous
Some cases of speeding where the rider has been well in excess of the speed limit have been charged as dangerous driving as opposed to a speeding offence. Be warned.
- Max punishment: 3-9 penalty points + fine of up to £5000
If a person drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road or place, he is guilty of an offence.
- Depending on the level of offence but up to £2500 fine and a ban from driving. If you're a little bit over the limit and you have a clean licence you may be offered a speed awareness course or driver
improvement scheme. You still get a fine but you don't get points if you accept.
- Max punishment 6 - 8 penalty points and a fine of up to £5000 but you could be banned and have the vehicle impounded.
In addition any insurance offence tends to have a drastic effect on your premiums next time you do insure.
- Max punishment: 3-6 months in prison, £1000 fine and 3 – 6 penalty points.
- Fine of £1000 or 5 times the VED rate which ever is the greater. Plus repayment of duty since the date of last issue.
- Up to £1000 fine and 3 points. But depending on circumstances you could be reported for careless or even dangerous driving.
In addition if an officer or PCSO believes you have been riding / driving in a careless or inconsiderate way they can issues you with a warning or seize your vehicle under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.