Speeding is a criminal offence in the UK and can have serious consequences; drivers should always be aware of the speed limit on the roads they are travelling on. The police has the power to issue penalty points, fines, driving bans and even imprisonment for those who exceed the speed limit and cause dangerous situations or accidents.

In the following guide, the motoring offence experts at JMW Solicitors will explain the different criminal offences associated with speeding and how to best avoid committing them.

What are the different speeding offences?

The speeding offences for which drivers in the UK most commonly receive criminal convictions are as follows.

Exceeding the speed limit

Exceeding the speed limit involves driving at a speed higher than permitted on a given stretch of road. Drivers who are caught speeding may be issued with their first Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). Depending on the severity of their offence, they may also receive additional points added to their licence or even be disqualified.

Driving too fast for conditions

Driving too fast for conditions refers to driving at a speed that is unsafe for the conditions of the road. For a driver to be prosecuted for this offence, they must have failed to consider the weather, visibility and other drivers on the road. If this speeding offence is serious enough, a prosecution driving without due care and attention or for dangerous driving can also be brought against the driver. This will bring a higher penalty, and depending on how much harm was caused, could lead to a disqualification or imprisonment.

Driving without due care and attention

Driving without due care and attention is an offence where a driver does not: 

• Keep a proper lookout for other vehicles, pedestrians or cyclists
• Fails to take reasonable care of their vehicle
• Is distracted by using a mobile phone while driving 

This offence is punishable with fines and points added to your licence.

How to avoid speeding offences

The best way to avoid being charged with a criminal conviction for speeding is to adhere to the speed limits on roads. Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings, the weather and road conditions, as well as the behaviour of other motorists.

It's important to remember that different speed limits apply to different roads. In some built-up areas, this can be as low as 20mph, while motorways often have a 70mph limit. It's also important to note that variable speed limits may be in place at certain times - such as during rush hour periods or when there are adverse weather conditions. Drivers need to make sure they stay within these limits at all times.

Finally, it is important to remember that speeding offences are often the result of impatience and poor judgement on the part of a driver. To avoid unnecessary risks or punishments, take your time when driving and plan your journey to make sure you do not have to rush. This will help you stay safe on the roads, as well as reduce the chances of receiving a speeding ticket.

If you find yourself charged with a speeding offence, make sure to seek the advice of a motoring offence specialist - such as those at JMW Solicitors - in order to understand your options and choose the best course of action for your particular case.

Call us today on 0800 804 8159, or fill out an online enquiry form and we will return your call at a time convenient for you.