In the past four years alone, more than half a million drivers have been disqualified due to a driving conviction. From drink and drug driving, to driving without a licence or insurance, convictions are still happening at an alarming rate.
If you’re a convicted driver, it can be hard to find an insurance policy that will cover you. Let’s look at some of the most common convictions and how convicted drivers can still get back on the road with protection.
What is the most serious driving offence?
The most serious driving offence is drink or drug driving. This accounts for around a quarter of all driving convictions in the UK. If you’re caught drink or drug driving, you could face a prison sentence, a fine, or a ban from driving.
The number of drink drivers in the UK has been on the decline in recent years, thanks to tougher laws and public awareness campaigns. However, there are still around 4,000 people killed or seriously injured by drink drivers each year.
Drug driving, however, is on the rise. A recent study found that one in eight drivers aged 17-24 had taken drugs before driving, and that drugs were a factor in around one in every 200 accidents on UK roads. The most common drugs used by these drivers are cannabis and cocaine.
What is the most common driving offence?
The most common driving offence is speeding. This accounts for around a third of all driving convictions in the UK. Speeding is not only dangerous, but it can also be costly. The average speeding fine is £100, but if you’re caught driving excessively over the speed limit, you could face a fine of up to £2,500.
If you’re caught speeding, you could also have your licence revoked. The minimum punishment for speeding is a points endorsement on your licence, which could lead to higher insurance premiums.
Is drink driving an automatic ban?
Drink driving is an automatic ban. The minimum ban for drink driving is 12 months, but if you’re caught with a high blood alcohol level, you could be banned for up to 36 months.
You can also be banned from driving for other offences, such as drug driving or speeding. The length of the ban will depend on the offence and the severity of it.
Is a motoring conviction a criminal conviction?
Most motoring offences are not criminal convictions. However, there are some offences that can lead to a criminal conviction, such as drink driving or causing death by dangerous driving.
If you’re convicted of a criminal offence, this will go on your criminal record and could affect your employment prospects or travel plans.
What is the penalty for driving without insurance?
The penalty for driving without insurance is a fine of up to £5,000 and eight points on your licence. If you’re caught driving without insurance more than once, you could be disqualified from driving.
Driving without insurance is a serious offence because it puts other road users at risk. If you cause an accident while uninsured, you could be liable for any damage or injuries caused.
What can I do to drive more safely?
There are a few things you can do to drive more safely and avoid getting convictions:
- Obey the speed limit: speeding is one of the most common causes of accidents, so make sure you stick to the limit.
- Never drink and drive: if you’re going to be drinking, make sure you leave the car at home.
- Don’t use your phone while driving: using your phone behind the wheel is not only distracting, but it’s also illegal.
- Wear a seatbelt: wearing a seatbelt can save your life in an accident, so make sure you always buckle up.
- Drive defensively: always be aware of other road users and be prepared to react if they make a mistake.
By following these simple tips, you can help to reduce your chances of getting a conviction and make our roads safer for everyone.
How long does a conviction stay on your licence?
The length of time a conviction stays on your licence will depend on the offence. For most minor offences, such as speeding, the conviction will stay on your licence for four years. For more serious offences, such as drink driving, the conviction will stay on your licence for 11 years.
How can I get insurance if I have a conviction?
If you have a conviction, it can be hard to find an insurance policy that will cover you. However, there are some insurers who will offer convicted drivers insurance. This is usually more expensive than standard insurance, as you’re seen as a higher risk.
To get the best deal on convicted driver insurance, it’s important to shop around and compare quotes from different insurers. It’s also worth considering black box insurance, which could help to lower your premiums.
If you are looking for convicted drivers insurance, we can help! Fill out our form and we’ll put you in touch with our panel of expert brokers who can provide you with a competitive quote.