The offence of failing to provide driver information is committed when the registered keeper, having received a notice of intended prosecution requesting driver details, provides no response to the police. This offence carries 6 penalty points on conviction and is a significant contributor to disqualification for many drivers.

It often comes as a shock to drivers that the offence carries so many penalty points and can pose such a risk to a motorist?s licence, regardless of whether they were behind the wheel at the time an offence was committed. It actually carries more penalty points than a speeding fine itself and essentially, is quite an easy offence to commit without realising. Simply misplacing the police letter can amount to a driving ban (for those already without a clean licence).

Section 172 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 concerns itself with the obligations of the vehicle owner and others involved with another motoring offence (such as speeding, dangerous driving etc.). In accordance with Section 172 an individual must provide details to the police as requested, it governs both drivers and witnesses, in the following manner:

(a) the person keeping the vehicle shall give such information as to the identity of the driver as he may be required to give; and

(b) any other person shall, if required as stated above, give any information which it is in his power to give and may lead to the identification of the driver.

Case law in this area is extensive and the most discussed area of law as it affects anyone whereby failure of post or change of address finds themselves convicted and disqualified without knowledge of proceedings.

If you find yourself in this situation we can help you contest the offence and remain in possession of your driving licence. Our area of expertise lies in motoring law and we have helped many motorists to remain on the roads after facing the prospect of potential disqualification. If you would like to speak to one of our friendly team regarding this offence or any other motor law matters don?t hesitate to give us a call on 01244 344299 or send us a message via our online contact form.