Driving Penalties
Whether you’ve been driving for years, or are new to the roads, it’s good to refresh yourself on why you shouldn’t speed and the possible repercussions if you do.
Driving under the influence...
In 2017, more than 230 people in the UK were killed as a result of one or more driver being over the legal limit. The total casualties? 8,600.
Whilst a danger to others, if you are caught being in charge of a vehicle while above the legal limit or unfit through drink you could also get:
- 3 months’ imprisonment
- Up to £2,500 fine
- A possible driving ban
Speeding Fines...
The minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points added to your licence. Clock up more than 12 points within 3 years and you could be disqualified from driving.
If you're stopped by the police they can either give you a verbal warning, give or send you a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) or order you to go to court. New Driver? If you’ve passed your test recently (within the past 2 years) and get 6 or more points you’ll have your licence revoked. For more detail on this visit GOV.uk.
No, they're not trying to catch you for the money...
Contrary to what you might have heard before, all money raised from speed cameras in fines is given to the Treasury. So, the local authorities have no incentive to place cameras on roads other than to improve road safety and hopefully reduce the number of people speeding in the first place. Read more about common driving law myths here.