What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Why was I convicted of failing to stop for an accident?

Last autumn I joined the A5 from a minor road at a busy large roundabout with five exits. As I left the roundabout I felt the slightest bump on my nearside. Four days later I received a Notice of Intended Prosecution for dangerous driving/careless or inconsiderate driving. As requested I attended the local police station with my driving licence and insurance. Before the interview I asked the PC to look at my car and point out any damage. She could find none. To the question: "At the time of the collision did you stop?" I replied ""No.”

I later learned that the Police dropped the case as they did not know who was at fault. I heard nothing from the driver of the other car or her insurers. Five months later I received a summons to attend court to answer a charge of "Failing to stop and failing to report within 24 hours". I could only plead guilty. I was fined £550, costs £160, victim support £15. When my licence was returned it was endorsed with “10 - 8 penalty points" to add to the SP30.

Asked on 30 March 2013 by GD, Westbury

Answered by Honest John
I'm surprised that your solicitor did not recommend you to appeal because this has gone on the facts on paper rather than what actually happened. But I'll run this as a fair warning to anyone else who sustains a minor bump. Best to report it within 24 hours.
Similar questions
My daughter, a bicycle courier, was knocked off her bike while working. The driver who ran into her admitted liability, but doesn't want to go through his insurance. He has offered to give her the equivalent...
My daughter's Renault Clio was hit in the back at a roundabout exit by a Ford Ka. The Clio sustained some damage, my six year old granddaughter and her friend were very upset and crying when this happened....
I was involved in a fatal accident with a pedestrian in 2008. I was not at fault and no prosecution was brought against me, however, my car was taken for examination and rightly so. I was self-employed...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer