Careless Driving Not Far Short of Dangerous Driving – Truck Driver Keeps his Licence

Helen Newbold, barrister, represented this driver in the Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to a charge of careless driving.

The prosecution produced CCTV of his truck hitting one car causing it to smash into another, writing both vehicles off and causing significant injuries to the drivers. The Prosecution described the incident as occurring in heavy traffic on the M25 in winter and that, according to his interview, the driver was unaware of events until he observed them in his mirrors.

Helen Newbold, in mitigation explained a detailed explanation of the number of blind spots an HGV driver must contend with The Magistrates were persuaded not to impose a discretionary disqualification. After the application of credit for an early guilty plea, credit for the remorse shown by the driver and his personal circumstances the driver received a moderate fine and 9 points on his licence.