Drink Driving and Number Plate Offences

There are relatively few cases of drink driving convictions, however anyone up against a drink driving charge faces a mandatory minimum twelve month ban, but it may well be more if the reading is high or the circumstances otherwise warrant it.

The ban may be reduced by one quarter if a rehabilitation course is offered and taken

A high reading can also result in a community penalty or even custody.

It is not possible to delay providing a reading by waiting for legal advice. In fact if someone does not oblige to provide a reading it is an offence in itself unless there are genuine ( usually medical ) reasons.

If a breath reading is below 50 micrograms then the Police are obliged to offer the option of blood or urine. It is always worth taking that option.

Only special reasons related to the reason for the offence can result in the Magistrates having a discretion not to disqualify for excess alcohol or refusing a sample when driving, but you may have a defence to an excess alcohol when the offences is “in charge” of the vehicle.

Number Plate Offences

If a number plate does not comply with regulations then it is an offence. Spacing under the 2001 ‘Road Vehicles Display of Registration Marks’ Regulations is governed by strict rules. For instance, a registration plate must be fixed vertically to the rear of the motorbike. It should be clear and easily read in daylight and appropriately lit in darkness.

Anyone repeatedly reported having a defective number plate may have registration removed by the DVLA and a Q plate dramatically reduces motorbike resale value.

It is also an offence to tamper with a number plate to try and deflect flash photography. This could incur prosecution for attempting to pervert the course of justice, which will almost certainly mean gaol.

It is a serious offence to change a letter, number or display a false registration. Offences of this nature can incur custodial sentences of up to two years.

Although it is currently a non-endorsable offence to display no number at all, we envisage that this will not be the case for much longer.

For more information regarding our Offence Guides, or advice on dealing with the police or the Courts, please contact our dedicated team now.

Remember, if you or a member of your family has been involved in a motorbike accident, and has incurred injury, you may be entitled to compensation on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. Contact us today for free impartial advice and no obligation legal guidance.

For more information on exhaust pipes and document offences, click here

For 24 hour assistance at the Police Station call: 07623 972487

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