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UK Driving Offence Codes List

If you’re a driver in the United Kingdom, you should be familiar with the various driving offences and their corresponding offence codes. These codes help identify the type of offence committed, and they can appear on your driving record if you’ve been convicted of a violation.

This article provides a comprehensive list of driving offence codes, covering various categories such as speeding, alcohol and drug-related offences, dangerous and careless driving, vehicle documentation and licensing offences, and more.

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Types of Driving Offences

Understanding the different types of driving offences can help you be more aware of the potential consequences you may face if convicted. Below are the main categories of driving offences in the UK:

Speeding Offences
Alcohol and Drug-Related Offences
Dangerous and Careless Driving
Vehicle Documentation and Licensing Offences
Miscellaneous Offences

Speeding Offences

Speeding is one of the most common driving offences. Some common speeding offence codes include:

Exceeding the speed limit (SP30)

This code is applied when a driver is caught driving above the legal speed limit on a public road. The penalty for this offence can vary depending on the severity of the violation.

Exceeding a temporary speed limit (SP60)

This offence occurs when a driver exceeds a temporary speed limit, which is typically imposed in construction zones or during special events. The penalties for this offence are similar to those for exceeding the regular speed limit.

Unlawfully racing or competitive driving (SP50)

This code is applied when a driver engages in illegal racing or competitive driving on public roads. This offence can carry severe penalties, including license suspension or disqualification.

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Alcohol and Drug-Related Offences

Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offence. The following are some common driving offence codes related to alcohol and drug use:

Driving under the influence of alcohol (DR10)

This code is applied when a driver is found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit. Penalties for this offence can include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment in severe cases.

Refusing to provide a specimen for analysis (DR30)

This offence occurs when a driver refuses to provide a breath, blood, or urine sample for alcohol or drug testing. The penalties for this offence can be similar to those for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Driving under the influence of drugs (DG10)

This code is applied when a driver is found to be operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs. The penalties for this offence can include fines, license suspension, and potential imprisonment.

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Dangerous and Careless Driving

Dangerous and careless driving offences involve actions that put other road users at risk. Some common offence codes in this category include:

Dangerous driving (DD10)

This code is used when a driver is convicted of driving in a manner that poses a significant risk to others. Penalties for dangerous driving can include fines, license suspension, and imprisonment.

Causing serious injury by dangerous driving (DD80)

This offence occurs when a driver’s dangerous driving results in serious injury to another person. The penalties for this offence can be more severe than those for dangerous driving alone, including longer prison sentences.

Careless driving (CD10)

Careless driving refers to a driver’s failure to exercise proper care and attention while on the road. This can include actions such as tailgating, unsafe lane changes, or ignoring road signs. Penalties for careless driving can include fines and penalty points on your license.

Vehicle Documentation and Licensing Offences

These offences involve violations related to vehicle documentation and driver licensing. Some common offence codes include:

Driving without a valid license (LC20)

This code is applied when a driver is caught operating a vehicle without the proper license. Penalties can include fines and penalty points on your license.

Driving without valid insurance (IN10)

This offence occurs when a driver operates a vehicle without the required insurance coverage. Penalties for this offence can include fines, penalty points, and even vehicle seizure in some cases.

Miscellaneous Offences

These offences cover a wide range of driving violations not covered in the categories above. Some examples include:

Failure to comply with traffic signal (TS10)

This offence occurs when a driver ignores or disobeys a traffic signal, such as running a red light. Penalties can include fines and penalty points on your license.

Using a mobile phone while driving (CU80)

This code is applied when a driver is caught using a handheld mobile phone or similar device while driving. Penalties can include fines and penalty points on your license.

Parking offences (PC10, PC20, PC30)

These codes cover various parking offences, such as parking on double yellow lines, in restricted zones, or obstructing traffic. Penalties for parking offences typically involve fines.

Conclusion

Being aware of the various driving offence codes in the United Kingdom can help you stay informed and avoid potential penalties. Always practice safe and responsible driving to protect yourself and others on the road.

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UK Driving Offences Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common types of driving offences in the United Kingdom?

The most common driving offences in the UK include speeding, drink driving, drug driving, careless driving, using a mobile phone while driving, and driving without insurance. These offences carry varying penalties, including fines, points on your license, and disqualification from driving in more serious cases.

2. How does the UK penalty points system work for driving offences?

The penalty points system in the United Kingdom is designed to deter and punish repeat offenders. When a driver is found guilty of a driving offence, they may receive penalty points on their driving license. Accumulating too many points within a specific timeframe can lead to a driving ban or license revocation.

3. What are the consequences of drink driving?

Drink driving is a serious offence and can result in severe penalties. Consequences may include a large fine, a driving ban, and even imprisonment in severe cases. In addition, the offender may face higher insurance premiums, difficulty finding employment, and a criminal record.

4. How does the UK enforce speeding offences and what are the penalties?

Speeding offences in the United Kingdom are typically detected by speed cameras or police patrols. The penalties for speeding can range from a fixed penalty notice to a court summons, depending on the severity of the offence. Penalties may include fines, penalty points on the driver’s license, and even disqualification from driving in more serious cases.

5. What are the rules regarding using a mobile phone while driving in the UK?

It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone or device while driving. This includes making or receiving calls, texting, or using mobile applications. Drivers caught using a mobile phone can face fines, penalty points on their license, and even disqualification from driving in more severe cases.

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6. What is the punishment for driving without insurance?

Driving without insurance is a serious offence and can result in severe penalties. These may include a fixed penalty notice, a court summons, and even the seizure and destruction of the vehicle. Drivers can also face fines, penalty points on their license, and disqualification from driving.

7. How can I contest a driving offence charge?

If you believe you have been wrongly accused of a driving offence, you should seek legal advice from a qualified solicitor specialising in motoring law. They can provide guidance on the best course of action and help you challenge the charge in court if necessary.

8. What is the definition of careless driving?

Careless driving, also known as driving without due care and attention, is defined as driving that falls below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver. This may include tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or failing to signal properly. Penalties for careless driving can include fines, penalty points on your license, and disqualification from driving in more serious cases.

9. Can I receive penalty points for parking offences?

In general, parking offences do not result in penalty points on your driving license. However, parking in dangerous or obstructive manners, such as on a blind bend or blocking an emergency vehicle, can result in a more serious driving offence and the subsequent imposition of penalty points.

10. What are the consequences of driving while disqualified?

Driving while disqualified is a serious offence and can result in severe penalties. Consequences may include a substantial fine, an extended period of disqualification, and potentially imprisonment. Offenders may also face further legal consequences, such as increased insurance premiums and difficulty finding employment.

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