Dangerous Driving Offence Solicitors

Dangerous driving is one of the most serious motoring offences in UK law. It is defined as driving which falls far below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver. It must also be obvious to a competent and careful driver that driving in that way would be dangerous.

There is no definition in law of what is meant by ‘far below’ however, there must be danger of personal injury or serious damage to property. The prosecution often allege that several types of driving fall in to the category of ‘dangerous driving’ such as:

• Racing or competitive driving
• Aggressive driving
• Disregard of traffic lights and other road signs, which would appear to be deliberate
• Disregard of warnings from fellow passengers
• Overtaking that could not be carried out safely
• Driving when knowingly suffering from a medical or physical condition that significantly impairs driving skills – e.g. impaired eyesight, failure to take prescribed medication etc.
• Driving when knowingly deprived of adequate sleep
• Driving a vehicle with known dangerous defects

If you have been accused of dangerous driving you may be able to defend the allegation or argue special reasons. It is extremely important to seek specialist advice as soon as is possible. Our experts will provide robust advice in respect of the evidence against you and act on your behalf to ensure the best possible outcome.

The consequences

Dangerous driving is an either way offence, which means that it can be heard in the Magistrates or Crown Court. The sentencing is therefore different dependent on which Court deals with your case however, if you are convicted you will be disqualified from driving for at least 12 months and ordered to take an extended re-test. You will not be able to drive again until you have passed the extended re-test.

If the case is dealt with in the Magistrates Court the maximum sentence is 6 months imprisonment, in addition to a means tested fine. However, if the case is heard in the Crown Court, the maximum sentence is 2 years imprisonment.

Legal representation

If you have been asked to a police interview under caution, contact us immediately. You are entitled to representation for any police interview. If we are instructed, one of our experts will attend the station with you. They will liaise with the interviewing officers to obtain disclosure prior to the interview, so you know the details of the allegation against you. They will also provide advice as to how best deal with the interview. Having specialist representation at interview ensures bespoke advice from the very outset.

If you have already been charged with dangerous driving, it is of the utmost importance that you seek specialist advice as soon as possible. Our road traffic defence solicitors are on standby, ready to assist you to deal with the process from start to finish. They will provide bespoke advice in respect of the strength of the evidence in your case and their proactive approach ensures you are in the best position possible to negotiate a plea to a lesser offence or secure an acquittal.

Contact us today for more information and an initial free confidential discussion with one of our motoring law experts at 0161 930 5151 or email crimeandregulatoryteam@gorvins.com

Alternatively please complete the contact form on this page and we will contact you as soon as possible.