Causing a Death by Dangerous Driving Lawyer

In the most recent government press release on fatalities on Scotland’s roads it was confirmed that an incredible 162 people died as a result of a tragic accident or either dangerous or careless driving.

Nobody would ever wish to be involved in such a life changing event but we know from our extensive experience in dealing with such cases that even the slightest lapse in a driver’s concentration can result in the finger of blame being pointed at them resulting in the Crown Office & Procurator Fiscal Service raising a prosecution.

We understand that if you are unfortunate enough to be facing a prosecution for death by dangerous driving or death by careless driving that your choice of legal representation can ultimately be a life changing decision given the very serious penalties that apply to these most serious of road traffic offences.

Causing death by dangerous driving or careless driving are covered under sections 1 and 2B of the Road Traffic Act 1988 respectively. Although these offences relate to driving resulting in a fatality the legal definitions of both offences do not differ from those detailed in the dangerous driving and careless driving sections of our website.

Penalties of Causing a Death by Dangerous or Careless Driving

If convicted of death by dangerous driving or death by careless driving the respective penalties are as follows:-

• Death by dangerous driving- A maximum prison sentence of 14 years and minimum period of disqualification of 2 years. In addition to this the driver must also pass an extended test of competency to drive before regaining a driving licence
• Death by careless driving- A maximum prison sentence of 5 years and obligatory disqualification

Court proceedings for death by dangerous driving will always take place in the High Court of Justiciary whereas death by careless driving can be heard at Sheriff court level or the High Court.

If you are charged with any of these offences it is important that you act fast in securing the best possible legal representation. By the time you are charged, the police have already carried out a forensic and meticulous analysis of both the physical, eye witness and video evidence and established as strong a case as they possibly can against you and reported this to the Crown Office & Procurator Fiscal Service.

At Sheridan Road Traffic Law we have the extensive experience, knowledge of road traffic law and the proven track record to ensure that the odds are balanced back in your favour. We will get to work straight away, thoroughly investigating your case and leaving no stone unturned. We will also give you access to Scotland’s best expert witnesses including the former police officer who taught the police college course on road traffic accident investigation and reconstruction to give you the strongest possible defence.

Don’t risk your liberty, your career and your family’s future, chose the peace of mind of knowing your in the hands of Scotland’s award winning road traffic lawyer, Contact us now on 0141 465 3333.