< Go Back Types Of Driving Offences Posted: Jan 31, 2022We spend a lot of time in our vehicles, whether that is for enjoyment purposes or the daily commute to work. We also travel long distances to go on family holidays or visit our relatives.
However, most people don’t consider the consequences of driving dangerously until an incident occurs. So, how can we prevent driving offences from occurring? And what are the consequences if the worst happens?
What Are the Different Types of Driving Offences?
Dangerous Driving
This is one of the most common issues and is normally caused by road rage or someone driving aggressively and showing no regard for other drivers on the road. An example of this type of offence is when someone is racing another vehicle or displaying aggressive or intimidating behaviour behind another car, also known as tailgating.
There are also offences such as driving under the influence of alcohol, prescription medication, or recreational drugs. Offences can also extend to overtaking too closely, using a mobile phone, or reading a map. Anything that takes your focus from the wheel could constitute dangerous driving.
Careless Or Inconsiderate Driving
These are the offences that can happen very quickly if you aren’t paying attention or know where you are going. Careless, inconsiderate driving offences are situations like driving through a red light by mistake, following another vehicle too closely, or being impatient with a learner driver.
It could also be dazzling other drivers with full beam headlights if you have forgotten to switch them off. Other examples are driving too slowly and displaying inconsiderate behaviour towards other road users.
Speeding
Speeding is the most common driving offence. Many drivers either purposely speed due to being in a rush or for the pleasure of it. Speeding offences are captured through the use of a stand-alone speed camera or speeding traps that are set up by the local authorities.
Depending on the severity of the speeding offence, you can land 3-6 points on your licence or a ban from driving. Speeding offences can commonly be found accompanying drunk driving offences.
When we drink alcohol, our confidence increases, and unfortunately, this can lead to dangerous speeding which also can end up in a pedestrian fatality or a collision with another road user.
Driving Whilst Under the Influence
Unfortunately, whilst the adverts are constantly available and the law specifically states that you should not exceed the designated alcohol consumption, many road users still get penalised for driving over the limit.
Driving whilst intoxicated is extremely dangerous and increases your reaction times severely when you need them the most. Many people are killed each year in accidents involving a driver that is intoxicated or has taken recreational or prescribed drugs.
You should always check your medication labels and consult your doctor before getting behind the wheel as some prescription drugs can cause drowsiness and limit your ability to drive safely.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will either get you banned from driving or may also involve a prison sentence depending on the severity of the crime.
Fosse Law
If you need to discuss anything relating to motoring offences or need support from a legal advisor after a collision, consider us at Fosse Law. We are based in Leicester and have extensive experience in the field of driving law. Get in touch with us on 0116 326 0100. You can also browse our motoring offences page for full details on your potential next steps.
