Death by Dangerous Driving

At Cartwright King we understand that motoring mistakes can be made and that serious accidents can occur whilst driving which are not necessarily your fault. If you have been accused of causing death by dangerous driving, you could be faced with a lengthy prison sentence and a motoring ban. This is the most serious motoring offence and one that if proved against you almost always leads to a prison sentence. It is vital that you seek very early advice. We are available to represent you throughout the entire legal process and can assist wherever you are based.

What is Careless Driving and Dangerous Driving?

According to the Road Traffic Act 1988, a person is to be regarded as driving without due care and attention if ( and only if ) the way they  drive falls below what would be expected of a competent and careful driver, having regard not only to the circumstances of which they could be expected to be aware but also any circumstances shown to have been within their knowledge. 

A person is regarded as driving dangerously if and only if the way they drive falls far below what would be expected of a competent and careful driver, and it would be obvious to a competent and careful driver that driving in that way would be dangerous.

If there is evidence that you have driven under the standard expected by a competent and careful driver, and that your driving has caused an inconvenience to others on the road, you could be charged with inconsiderate driving. This could come as a result of actions, including (but not limited to):

• Failure to look correctly
• Braking suddenly
• Tailgating
• Inside overtaking
• Having your attention diverted by a distraction, either inside or outside of the vehicle
• Turning into the path of other drivers

If any of the above behaviours lead to a fatality, you could be charged with death by careless driving. With a proven track record of success in defending such cases, Cartwright King Solicitors can support you with reliable legal advice and represent you in court. We will take into account all circumstances related to your case to ensure that your best interests are protected in such challenging times.

Dangerous Driving and Level of Culpability According to the Law

Cases of death by careless driving are judged on the level of culpability attributed to the driver in the events leading to the fatal accident. The court will look at all the circumstances and factors which aggravate the matter including:

• Driving aggressively
• Ignoring the speed limit
• Racing
• Undertaking other vehicles
• Failing to stop for police
• Being distracted by radio or communication device

In some cases of death by careless driving, the blame level attributable to the driver may be mitigated by external circumstances – such as if they turn into the path of another driver due to severely poor weather obscuring their vision. Without aggravating factors, you could be given a fine and/or a non-custodial sentence, including unpaid community work, as well as curfew and activity requirements.

If your driving is considered to have been dangerous and/or there are aggravating factors, you could be facing a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison (applicable in particularly severe cases, including where driving under the influence is involved). Having a team of specialist motoring offences lawyers, such as Cartwright King Solicitors, by your side could make the difference when it comes to the outcome of your case.

Aggravating and Mitigating Factors

Our experienced driving offence solicitors can advise you on the factors that can influence the sentencing when you are charged with death by careless driving. As we discuss the best strategy for your defence, we will examine the circumstances and behaviours that could impact the penalty given, as well as the most suitable ways of addressing them in court. 

Potential Aggravating Factors

• More than one person was killed as a result
• Serious injuries sustained by other parties, in addition to the death(s) caused
• Previous convictions, particularly other driving offences
• Other offences committed at the time, such as hit and run offences, driving without a licence/insurance, driving whilst disqualified, driving a stolen vehicle
• Lying about the accident or general irresponsible behaviour

Potential Mitigating Factors

• The victim was a relative or friend of the accused
• The accused was seriously injured during the event
• The accused lack of driving experience, which may have contributed to the likelihood of the event
• The actions of a third party or the victim themselves contributed to the offence
• Careless driving was a result of a genuine and proven emergency

How can we help you?

Cartwright King are available to present your case in court and take into consideration all the factors surrounding your circumstances. You can be assured that you will receive the essential, high quality legal advice and representation that our solicitors have to offer.

Why choose us if you’re accused of Death by Dangerous Driving?

At Cartwright King, our solicitors understand the stress that being accused of causing a death by dangerous driving can cause and what the potential severe consequences can have on your family and your career. We are available to support you throughout the entire process, explaining the likely outcomes and fight on your behalf.

How to make contact

Please contact our motoring team for a no obligation, free telephone conversation, and we’ll happily provide you with a quote. Where we can, we’ll provide you with a fixed fee, so you don’t have to worry the costs. Alternatively, you can email us using the contact form.