Information About Being Banned From Driving
If you have been banned from driving, you may be wondering what happens next. This page contains useful information about driving disqualifications, finding insurance and lowering the cost of motor trade premiums.
Why do people get banned from driving?
In 2017 alone, there were around 2.4 million driving offences recorded in England and Wales. Most people who make a mistake behind the wheel will be given a fixed penalty notice, but in some cases, drivers can be issued with a ban. It is estimated that around 250,000 drivers are banned in the UK every year. Driver disqualification is usually the result of committing a serious offence, such as drink driving, or amassing more than 12 points on your licence in a 3-year period (this is known as totting up). The most common driving offence in England and Wales is speeding. Statistics show that the number of people caught speeding increased by 7% in 2018, with a total of 189,000 offences.
What happens when you get banned from driving?
If a court bans you from driving, the restrictions will come into play immediately and you will be lawfully required to avoid driving a vehicle for the agreed period. The length of the ban will depend on the individual and the offences committed. If you have more than 12 points on your licence, and this is your first disqualification, you will be barred from driving for 6 months. If you have already been disqualified before, the duration will increase to 12 or 24 months. If you are banned for less than 56 days, you can retain your driving licence. If the ban lasts longer than 56 days, your licence will be revoked and you will need to reapply when the ban ends.
Finding insurance after being banned from driving
Driving convictions can make it more difficult to find motor trade insurance. Some insurers will not insure drivers who have served a ban, but there are specialist companies that provide policies for those who have convictions. If you have been refused insurance by an existing or previous insurance provider, it’s beneficial to seek expert advice and to search for a company that has experience in working with customers who are being refused or declined insurance and those with criminal convictions. If you have a DR10 (drink driving) conviction, or you’re looking for options for CU80 banned drivers, there is help available. You may find that your premiums increase in price because an insurer will see you as a greater risk, but there are ways of lowering prices and finding the best deals. If you compare prices, you stick to the instructions issued by the court, you pay annually and you take positive steps to reduce risks, such as attending a speed awareness course or taking advanced driving lessons, you should find that your premium decreases.
Summary
Banned drivers sometimes experience difficulties finding insurance. Although premiums may be higher, and it may be more challenging to find a provider, there is help available. Seeking expert advice can help you find the best insurance companies and lower the cost of your policy.