Driving convictions in the UK can have far-reaching consequences, not just in terms of legal penalties but also in how they affect your car insurance. This blog will explore the legal ramifications of common driving offences and how these convictions impact your insurance options.
Common Driving Convictions in the UK
In the UK, driving offences are categorised into minor and major offences, each carrying different legal consequences and insurance implications. Here’s a look at some of the most common driving convictions:
Speeding (SP30, SP50, etc.)
Exceeding the speed limit is one of the most common driving offences. Depending on the severity, it can result in a fixed penalty notice, a fine, and 3 to 6 penalty points on your driving license.
Drink Driving (DR10, DR20, etc.)
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence that can result in a driving ban, a fine, and even imprisonment. Convictions can remain on your driving record for up to 11 years.
Drug Driving (DG10, DG60, etc.)
Similar to drink driving, driving under the influence of drugs can lead to a driving ban, a fine, imprisonment, and a criminal record. These convictions also stay on your driving record for 11 years.
Driving Without Insurance (IN10)
Driving without valid insurance is a serious offence that can lead to fines, penalty points, and potential disqualification from driving.
Dangerous or Careless Driving (CD10, CD30, etc.)
Offences such as dangerous driving or driving without due care and attention can result in a range of penalties, from fines and penalty points to driving bans and imprisonment.
Legal Consequences of Driving Convictions
Driving convictions carry various legal penalties, depending on the severity of the offence:
Fines
Most driving offences result in fines, which can vary widely depending on the nature of the offence. For example, speeding fines can range from £100 to a percentage of your weekly income, while drink driving can attract fines of up to £2,500 or more.
Penalty Points
Accumulating 12 or more penalty points within three years can lead to a driving ban under the “totting-up” system. For new drivers, accumulating 6 points within the first two years of passing your test can result in license revocation.
Driving Bans
More serious offences, like drink or drug driving, can result in immediate driving bans ranging from 12 months to several years.
Imprisonment
For the most serious offences, such as causing death by dangerous driving, imprisonment is a likely consequence, with sentences ranging from several months to years, depending on the severity of the case.
How Driving Convictions Affect Your Insurance
The impact of a driving conviction on your car insurance can be significant and long-lasting. Here’s how:
Increased Premiums
Insurers view convicted drivers as higher risk, which translates into higher premiums. On average, drivers with a conviction can expect to pay significantly more for their car insurance, sometimes double or even triple the amount of a standard policy.
Limited Insurance Options
Some insurers may refuse to cover drivers with certain types of convictions, especially serious ones like drink or drug driving. This can make finding insurance more challenging, and you may need to seek out specialist insurers who cater to high-risk drivers.
Mandatory Disclosure
You are legally required to disclose any unspent convictions from within the past 5 years when applying for car insurance, although you may be asked to disclose anything from longer ago as well, depending on the insurer. Failure to do so can result in your policy being voided, meaning you won’t be covered in the event of an accident.
Impact of Penalty Points
Even minor convictions that result in penalty points can increase your insurance costs. The more points you have, the higher your premiums are likely to be, as insurers see points as indicators of higher risk.
Are You Looking For a Convicted Driver Insurance Policy?
Driving convictions carry serious legal consequences and can have a profound impact on your car insurance. However, with the right approach, you can work towards rebuilding your driving record and accessing more affordable insurance options over time.
If you’re struggling to find insurance after a conviction, we’re here to help. As specialists in convicted driver insurance, we can guide you through the process, helping you secure the coverage you need while working towards a better future. Visit our dedicated convicted driver insurance website page to learn more and to request a bespoke quote.