Motoring offences in the UK include a wide range of violations, from driving without a licence or insurance to serious offences like dangerous driving. More than 700,000 motorists were prosecuted in 2023 – a 6% increase from 2022.
M.A.J Law is a firm of motoring defence solicitors. The family-run company was set up by Marcus A Johnstone who believes every motorist has a right to access affordable legal representation to fight their case.
It is important to know your rights as a motorist and understand the offences you are accused of committing. Here is our guide to different motoring offences and the potential punishments under UK law.
- Speeding Offences
Speeding was the most common motoring offences in the UK in 2023, accounting for 65% of all motoring offences.
Punishment: The penalty for speeding varies depending on how much the speed limit has been exceeded. Most minor speeding offences result in a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £100 and three points on the driver’s licence. For more serious cases, where a driver is significantly over the limit and on motorways, fines can increase to up to £2,500. Drivers may also face a driving ban. Repeat offenders or those who commit extreme speeding offences may be summoned to court and face longer bans or even imprisonment.
- Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious criminal offence. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath and anything over that is illegal.
Punishment: There is a minimum 12-month driving ban for first-time offenders, between three and 11 penalty points and a fine of up to £5,000. If the case goes to court, penalties can include up to six months in prison.
Penalties are far more severe for repeat offenders or if the offence results in injury or death – longer driving bans, heavier fine and up to 14 years in prison.
- Driving Without Insurance
It is illegal to drive any vehicle on UK roads without at least third-party insurance, which covers damage or injury caused to others. Even if the vehicle is insured, the driver must be included on the policy.
Punishment: There is a £300 fixed penalty notice for driving without insurance. If the case goes to court, drivers face unlimited fines and could be disqualified from driving.
- Careless and Dangerous Driving
Careless driving, also known as “driving without due care and attention,” covers a range of offences – tailgating, using a mobile phone, or failing to indicate. Dangerous driving is the more serious crime, when a driver puts others at serious risk with their driving.
Punishment: Those charged with careless driving will usually have a £100 fine and three penalty points. More serious cases may be referred to court, where fines can be more severe and drivers could be disqualified. Dangerous driving is punishable by up to two years in prison, an unlimited fine, and a mandatory minimum driving ban of 12 months. Offenders will also be expected to take an extended retest.
- Driving Without a Valid Licence
Driving without a valid licence includes driving without having passed the required tests or driving without the appropriate category for the vehicle being used. It can also apply to those who are disqualified or have a provisional licence and are not driving under supervision.
Punishment: Drivers can be fined up to £1,000 and will receive between three and six penalty points. If you drive without a licence and you are disqualified, the consequences could include a court appearance, a further disqualification period, or imprisonment.
- Failing to Stop After an Accident
Failing to stop after an accident, or failing to report an accident, is a criminal offence. Drivers who are involved in a crash that results in damage or injury are legally required to stop and exchange details with the other party.
Punishment: The penalty for failing to stop can range from five to 10 penalty points and an unlimited fine. In serious cases, where the driver attempts to evade responsibility, they could face up to six months in prison and a lengthy driving ban.
- Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving or riding a motorcycle, including texting, making calls, or using navigation apps, unless the device is hands-free and does not distract the driver.
Punishment: Drivers caught using a mobile phone face a £200 fine and six penalty points. If the case goes to court, drivers could be disqualified and fined up to £1,000 (£2,500 for HGV or bus drivers).
M.A.J Law, which has more than 50 years of experience in defending motorists, prides itself on providing the very best service and advice for its clients. The firm has offices in Liverpool, Manchester and London, and represents motorists from across the country.
