A charge of careless driving is an offence that upon conviction carries penalty points or a discretionary disqualification and substantial fines. Our Solicitors have vast experience in assisting motorists to help them defend the case in order to minimize the impact – call for FREE initial advice today – 0115 784 1588
What is careless driving?
You can be accused of careless driving (or driving without due care and attention) when the police have evidence that your driving fell below the standard expected of a reasonable and competent driver.
We have assisted many clients who have been charged with careless driving for:
- Driving too close to another vehicle
- Tuning a radio
- Not giving way at a junction
- Overtaking on roads where it is not permitted.
- Inappropriate speed
- Eating, drinking or smoking while driving
What is the difference between careless driving and dangerous driving?
Careless driving occurs when a person’s standard of driving falls below the standard of driving expected of a competent and careful driver whereas dangerous driving is where the standard of driving falls far below that expected of a competent and careful driver. There is a qualitative distinction between the two offences with careless driving being less serious than dangerous driving. It is essentially a matter of fact and degree.
What are the likely penalties?
This will depend on:
- How far your driving fell below the normal standard of driving
- Any aggravating or mitigating features making the offence more or less serious
- Any personal mitigation
- Whether or not you plead guilty to the offence
- The court will be referred to the Sentencing Guidelines and if the court departed from the Guidelines they would need to give reasons in court.
What is the maximum penalty?
- Unlimited fine
- Licence endorsed with 3 to 9 points or a discretionary disqualification.
When would I need help from a solicitor?
- If you have a defence
- If you are unsure whether the elements of the offence are made out
- If there are special reasons not to endorse your licence or disqualify you from driving
- If you do not know what the guidelines are
- If you think you should not be dealt with in accordance with the guidelines
- If you do not want to represent yourself in court
- If you want to try and persuade the court to give you a lower number of points than the guidelines
- If you want points as opposed to a discretionary disqualification
- If you want a discretionary disqualification as opposed to points
- If you are at risk of a penalty points/totting disqualification.
Moore Motoring Law can help you: –
It is important you contact Moore Motoring Law as soon as possible to ensure you get the best advice for your circumstances. If you have been charged with careless driving please contact Moore Motoring Law on 01157 841588. We offer FREE Initial advice
