Road Traffic Offence? Get Expert Legal Advice
A road traffic offence can have serious consequences, from penalty points and fines to disqualification or even imprisonment. At Cartys Solicitors, we understand how important your driving licence is to your job, your family, and your freedom.
We provide expert legal advice and representation across a wide range of road traffic matters in Scotland. Whether you have been stopped by the police or received a citation in the post, we are here to help.
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Act Now to Protect Your Licence and Livelihood
If you have been charged with a road traffic offence, or are due to appear in court, time is crucial. The sooner you seek legal advice, the better your chances of a positive outcome.
Speak to our team today to arrange a confidential consultation and discuss your options with an experienced solicitor.
Common Road Traffic Offences We Deal With
Exceeding the speed limit is one of the most common traffic offences. Fixed penalties typically include a fine and three penalty points, but excessive speeding can lead to a court appearance, a larger fine, or even disqualification.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is treated very seriously. A conviction can result in a minimum 12-month driving ban, a fine, community service, imprisonment, and a criminal record.
Operating a vehicle without valid insurance is a strict liability offence. This means intent does not need to be proven. Offenders face fines, penalty points, and possible vehicle seizure.
Also known as “driving without due care and attention”, this includes incidents such as low-speed bumps, lane drifting, or failing to observe. It carries 3 to 9 penalty points.
This is a more serious offence involving behaviour that clearly falls far below acceptable standards, such as racing, ignoring traffic signs, or carrying out high-risk manoeuvres. A conviction can lead to a mandatory driving ban and a criminal record.
It is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving, even when stopped at traffic lights or in traffic queues. A conviction typically results in six penalty points and a fine of up to £1,000.
If you are suspected of drink or drug driving and refuse or fail to provide a breath, blood, or urine sample without a reasonable excuse, you could face a ban and a fine.
This is a criminal offence that may result in a prison sentence.
If you are involved in an accident and do not stop to exchange details or report it within 24 hours, you could face prosecution.
Accumulating 12 or more penalty points within three years can result in a “totting up” disqualification. Drivers can make an exceptional hardship argument to avoid disqualification, but success is not guaranteed and legal representation is advisable.
Even where a driving ban is mandatory, we may be able to present evidence that disqualification would cause disproportionate hardship to you or others, such as loss of employment or impact on dependants.
Drivers within two years of passing their test face licence revocation if they receive six or more penalty points.