Careless Driving

What is careless driving?

The Road Traffic Act 1988 defines careless driving as driving a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for other persons.

Careless driving is a broad offence and includes

  • Tailgating
  • Failing to give way
  • Using the wrong lane at a roundabout
  • Ignoring a lane closed sign and forcing your way into a queue of vehicles
  • Lane hogging, especially in the middle lane
  • Inappropriate speed
  • Undertaking on a motorway
  • Wheel spins
  • Hand brake turns
  • Operating a satnav or reading a map while driving
  • Eating or drinking at the wheel
  • Lane hopping or weaving
  • Dangerous overtaking

The above list is not exhaustive. Our Solicitors have defended most types of careless driving cases – you can be confident that our team has an in-depth understanding of the law and the court system. We are also able to instruct some of the country’s top barristers if you receive a Court summons.

What are the penalties for careless driving?

  • If you have committed a minor careless driving offence, you may receive a Fixed Penalty Notice which will normally consist of 3 penalty points on your licence and a £100 fine. The risk is that these points could result in you having 12 or more points on your licence (totting up) and therefore being disqualified from driving. If this happens, call us immediately so we can review your case and advise you on whether it is possible to avoid disqualification.
  • Careless driving can result in three to nine penalty points if the Court convicts you and a fine of up to £2,500. You can also be immediately disqualified from driving.

Schedule a consultation with one of our expert solicitors

Read what our clients think

Thanks to their expertise, the evidence was carefully reviewed, and they identified crucial details that helped to weaken the prosecution’s case. Throughout the entire ordeal, they kept me informed and supported, ensuring I felt confident during each step of the proceedings. At trial, I was completely acquitted of the charge. I am incredibly grateful for their dedication and hard work. They not only saved me from a criminal conviction but also from a potentially life-changing consequence of a prison sentence. I can’t recommend this firm highly enough. Thank you for everything.

Mr BD

The team’s professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to my case made all the difference. I can’t thank them enough for their support and dedication throughout the process. If you are facing any road traffic issues, I highly recommend Windmill Cross. They truly care about their clients and will fight for the best possible outcome.

Mr TA

I’m beyond relieved, and I owe it all to the team at Windmill  Cross. They were thorough, sympathetic and truly had my best interests at heart throughout the entire process. If you’re under investigation or facing legal challenges, I highly recommend them.

Anonymous