What is an instant driving ban?

Generally, the higher the speed, the greater your chance of being given a speeding ban. Instant bans tend to be issued if you have been caught exceeding the speed limit by 45%: Speed limit (Speed Alleged) 30 mph (In excess of 50 mph) 40 mph (In excess of 66 mph)

Is a ban worse than points?

Ordinarily, a disqualification is seen a more severe punishment than penalty points. However, there are occasions when a short period of disqualification is preferable to points.

What does it take to get banned from driving?

Dangerous Driving

Driving recklessly – racing or driving too fast. Driving whilst under the influence of drink, drugs or prescription drugs. Overtaking dangerously. Driving when unfit to do so (for example being tired, injured or not being able to see clearly)

What speed is an instant ban?

Will I get an instant ban? At excessive speeds of this nature (or of more than 30mph over the speed limit), a court appearance and instant driving ban is highly likely.

Is 12 points an instant ban?

Once you reach 12 points then the court will impose an immediate driving ban for a minimum of 6 months. This is known as a 'totting-up' disqualification. It is therefore possible to face a 6 month ban with only one previous conviction.

3 lessons my driving ban taught me about life

Is a driving ban better than points?

You may want to look at the relevant webpage for the particular offence you are facing. Sometimes driving bans can be used to your advantage. For example, if you are a new driver and penalty points would result in the revocation of your licence. Unlike penalty points, a ban will not cause your licence to be revoked.

Can I drive on the day my ban ends?

You cannot drive until your disqualification period has ended. Once the ban has come to an end you may be able to drive, even if your physical licence has not yet arrived.

Does a driving ban wipe out points?

If a driver 'tots up' 12 penalty points or more through a series of offences over a three-year period, they could get a driving ban. The mandatory guideline is that under the totting up system, when a ban comes to an end, a driver's licence is returned, their slate is wiped clean and all points are removed.

Do I have to retake my test after a driving ban?

You will normally not have to retake your test once your ban is spent. However, it is entirely up to the discretion of the court and, in extreme circumstances, your licence can be revoked and you will have to retake your test.

Can I get sacked for driving ban?

It will be fair to dismiss an employee as a result of a driving ban only in limited circumstances. The employer must consider a number of factors, including the length of the ban, and must take steps to ensure that the procedure that it follows is fair.

Is a driving ban a criminal conviction?

If you are banned under the totting up procedure, or receive an instant ban for say, speeding, you will not receive a criminal record as these are not arrestable offences. However, the more serious arrestable offences, such as drink driving, death by dangerous driving etc will result in a criminal record.

Do you have to declare a driving ban to insurance?

If you've been disqualified from driving you must inform your insurer straight away. You're technically in breach of your car insurance contract as you no longer hold a valid licence.

Does a driving ban affect insurance?

Do I have to inform my insurers if I receive penalty points or a driving ban? Yes. An insurance contract is one of "utmost good faith". Your insurers rely upon you to keep them appraised on any changes in your situation during the course of the policy.

How long is a 12 point driving ban?

When a person reaches 12 points the law requires Magistrates to disqualify them for at least 6 months. It is recognised that everyone who is disqualified from driving will suffer some hardship and inconvenience. That alone will not enable a ban to be reduced or avoided.

What is the punishment for driving whilst disqualified?

Driving while disqualified carries a range of possible penalties, including a six-month prison sentence, a fine and an extended driving ban. It is essential that you instruct a specialist motoring offence solicitor to represent you in court. A solicitor can argue for leniency, helping you to avoid a custodial sentence.

How can I stop my driving ban?

Can I apply for my driving license early after a ban?

In order to be eligible to apply for the early return of a driving licence, you must have: Served 2 years of a disqualification of 4 years or less; or. Have served half of the period of disqualification if the original sentence was for a period of between 4 to 10 years; or.

How do police catch disqualified drivers?

If you are caught driving whilst you are disqualified, you are committing a serious offence and could face immediate arrest. You will then be taken to a police station where you will be searched, photographed, have your fingerprints and DNA taken and held in a cell. You will then be subject to a recorded interview.

How many points is a ban?

Section 35 of the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988 states drivers who incur 12 or more penalty points on a driving licence must be disqualified for at least six months unless 'the court is satisfied, having regard to all the circumstances, that there are grounds for mitigating the normal consequences of the conviction ...

Is it worth getting a solicitor for speeding?

With speed cameras seemingly around every corner speeding prosecutions are a common occurrence but any conviction could have life changing consequences, with the threat of a driving disqualification and the effects it may have on you, your family and your employment it is highly advisable to consult a specialist ...

Can I still drive with 12 points?

If I receive 12 points or more, can I continue to drive? If the Court imposes points for the offence you face which 'tot up' to 12 points or more, the Court will look to impose the 'totting up' ban. A totting up ban will disqualify you from driving for a period of six months from when the ban is imposed.

Can you drive with 9 points?

When you have 9 penalty points on your licence, you cannot accept any further fixed penalty tickets and must go to court if you are charged with another motoring offence. You should be aware that you can be disqualified from driving if you get 12 or more penalty points within 3 years.

What happens if I get 6 points in first 2 years?

If you've received six points on your driving licence within two years of passing your test, your driving licence will automatically be revoked. This means that you'll need to reapply for a provisional licence and then retake your theory and practical driving tests.

Is insurance expensive after a ban?

Yes for the most part, but your premiums will be a lot more expensive than you're used to. However, depending on the severity of the offence – especially if it's a serious driving offence – many mainstream insurers may refuse you.