While the subjects mentioned in this article aren’t applicable just to young drivers, there are many incidents of those under 21 falling foul of these driving laws.Insurance for young drivers can be expensive, and in part this is due to the high number of crashes and instances of law-breaking amongst new and young drivers in the UK. Keep reading to discover some of the most common offences and the penalties that can be imposed.
Driving without insurance
At the end of June 2011 new laws came into force for all drivers in the UK regarding insurance. Whether you’re a young driver or have been driving for 30 years, there are now stiffer penalties in place for having an uninsured vehicle.Insurance advisory letters are now being sent out to anyone whose vehicle isn’t insured. If you’re a young driver with no car insurance and don’t take any action after receiving one of these letters you could be faced with the following;
- A £100 fixed penalty
- Your car could be clamped, impounded or crushed
- You could go to court and have to pay a maximum £1000 fine
- Drink and drug driving
- If you’re a new driver and are convicted of a drink driving or drug driving offence, your young persons’ car insurance premiums will go up as a result.
- There are a range of punishments available for drink and drug driving related offences ranging from having a criminal record, a fine and driving ban through to a lengthy prison sentence if you kill someone when you’re drunk or under the influence of illegal drugs behind the wheel.
Driving and mobile phone use
- A fine of £60 and three points on your licence can be imposed if you’re caught using your mobile phone when driving. Many young drivers don’t appreciate the seriousness of talking or texting while driving.
- If you’re caught doing this your young drivers’ insurance will go up when you come to renew as you’re obliged to tell your insurance company of any offences.
Speeding
- Excessive speed is a major cause of accidents involving young drivers. There are a range of penalties for speeding ranging from a £60 fine and three penalty points right through to going to court and having your licence revoked.
- Speeding is one of the main reasons insurance for young drivers is higher than for experienced drivers.