Driving Offences — Dangerous Driving
Dangerous Driving Solicitors in Chester
Charged with dangerous driving or causing death by dangerous driving? Our specialist road traffic solicitors provide robust defence in both Magistrates and Crown Court — protecting your liberty and your licence.
Whether this is a dangerous driving first offence or a more serious charge, we advise on the difference between careless and dangerous driving and the best strategy for your case.
Offences We Defend
Dangerous Driving (s.2 RTA)
Driving in a way that falls far below the standard of a careful and competent driver, where it would be obvious to a competent driver that driving in that way would be dangerous.
Maximum Penalty
Up to 2 years imprisonment, unlimited fine, mandatory disqualification, extended retest
Causing Death by Dangerous Driving (s.1 RTA)
Where dangerous driving causes the death of another person. This is one of the most serious road traffic offences and is always tried in the Crown Court.
Maximum Penalty
Up to 14 years imprisonment, unlimited fine, mandatory disqualification (minimum 2 years), extended retest
Causing Serious Injury by Dangerous Driving (s.1A RTA)
Where dangerous driving causes serious physical injury to another person. Introduced by the Road Traffic Act 1988 (as amended).
Maximum Penalty
Up to 5 years imprisonment, unlimited fine, mandatory disqualification, extended retest
Causing Death by Careless Driving (s.2B RTA)
Where careless or inconsiderate driving causes the death of another person. A lesser charge than causing death by dangerous driving but still very serious.
Maximum Penalty
Up to 5 years imprisonment, unlimited fine, mandatory disqualification (minimum 1 year)
Common Examples of Dangerous Driving
The courts apply an objective test: would a competent driver recognise the driving as dangerous? The following are commonly cited examples, though the list is not exhaustive.
- Excessive speeding — particularly in built-up areas or near schools
- Aggressive overtaking on blind bends or at junctions
- Racing or street racing
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Ignoring traffic signals or road signs
- Driving while exhausted or falling asleep at the wheel
- Driving a vehicle known to be in a dangerous condition
Why Instruct PDA Law?
Specialist Road Traffic Expertise
Our solicitors have extensive experience defending serious road traffic offences in both Magistrates and Crown Court.
Early Intervention
We can advise from the moment of arrest or charge — early intervention can significantly affect the outcome.
Charge Reduction
In appropriate cases, we can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce a dangerous driving charge to careless driving.
Expert Evidence
We work with accident reconstruction experts, toxicologists, and other specialists to build the strongest possible defence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between careless and dangerous driving?
Dangerous driving (s.2 RTA) requires that the driving fell far below the standard of a careful and competent driver and that it would be obvious to such a driver that driving in that way would be dangerous. Careless driving (s.3 RTA) requires only that the driving fell below the standard of a careful and competent driver — a lower threshold. The distinction is crucial: dangerous driving carries a maximum of 2 years imprisonment, while careless driving carries a maximum fine of £5,000.
What happens for a dangerous driving first offence?
For a dangerous driving first offence, the court will consider the nature of the driving, any aggravating factors (such as alcohol, drugs, or high speed), and your personal circumstances. A first offence does not automatically mean imprisonment — the court has discretion. However, a mandatory driving ban and extended retest are imposed on conviction. Early specialist legal advice is essential to present the strongest possible mitigation.
Will I go to prison for dangerous driving?
Imprisonment is possible but not inevitable for dangerous driving without a fatality. The court will consider the nature of the driving, any aggravating factors (such as alcohol, drugs, or previous convictions), and your personal circumstances. We will present the strongest possible mitigation on your behalf.
Do I have to take an extended driving test after a dangerous driving conviction?
Yes. A conviction for dangerous driving (and most serious road traffic offences) requires you to pass an extended driving test before your licence is returned after the disqualification period.
Can dangerous driving be reduced to careless driving?
In some cases, yes. If the evidence does not support the higher charge of dangerous driving, we may be able to negotiate a plea to the lesser charge of careless driving, which carries significantly lower penalties.
Do you advise dangerous driving clients in North Wales?
Yes. We regularly advise clients charged with dangerous driving across North Wales — including Wrexham, Flintshire, Deeside, Denbighshire, Conwy and Anglesey. We can advise remotely by phone or video call, or you can visit our Chester office which is easily accessible from North Wales via the A55 and A483.
What are the fixed fees for dangerous driving defence?
Our indicative fees for dangerous driving start from £3,600 inc VAT for Crown Court representation, and from £6,000 inc VAT for causing death by dangerous driving. Fees are quoted individually once we understand the full facts of your case. All fees are confirmed in writing before you instruct us.
Transparent Pricing
Indicative Fees for Dangerous Driving Defence
Dangerous driving cases are complex and fees depend on the specific facts. We provide a written estimate once we understand the full facts of your case. All fees include VAT at 20%.
| Service | Indicative Fee (inc VAT) |
|---|---|
| Dangerous driving (s.2 RTA) — Crown Court | From £3,600 |
| Causing death by dangerous driving (s.1 RTA) | From £6,000 |
| Causing serious injury by dangerous driving (s.1A RTA) | From £4,800 |
| Causing death by careless driving (s.2B RTA) | From £4,800 |
Our Team
Speak to a Member of Our Team
Ritesh Chauhan
Consultant Road Traffic Offences Solicitor
Ritesh qualified as a solicitor in 2020 and has since built a focused practice in road traffic law. He defends dangerous driving charges in both Magistrates and Crown Court — advising on the strength of the evidence, available defences, and the best strategy to protect your liberty and your licence. He represents clients across Chester, Cheshire, North Wales and throughout England and Wales.
Charged with Dangerous Driving?
Contact our road traffic solicitors in Chester today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
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