Give us a call

0208 578 6858

What happens if you get caught speeding

You should obey speed restrictions at all times. If not, you’ll find out for yourself what happens if you get caught speeding in the UK.

When you get into a vehicle, there are several consequences of speeding that you need to be aware of. The speed limit is in place for a reason and aims to keep all road users and pedestrians safe.

Speeding penalties

At the time of writing, the minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and three points on your licence. Your licence will then have a code on it for 4 years to show that you’ve been found guilty of speeding.

If you accumulate 6 penalty points in the first two years after passing your test, your driving licence will be revoked. It’s much better to slow down than to risk not having a licence at all!

Speed awareness courses

You might be given the option to attend a speed awareness course rather than receiving a fine and penalty points. This could occur if the police think it is appropriate for your case, or if you have not been on a speed awareness course in the past 3 years.

Make sure you stay up-to-date on the Highway Code too. Take a look at our refresher tips here.

UK speed limit sign and speed camera warning

Other countries have different driving laws. Take a look at some of the most bizarre ones. 

Speed cameras and police stops

There are a couple of ways you could be found speeding. A static speed camera can capture your vehicle with an image.  Or, the police can stop you on the road. If the police stop you, there are three things you can expect:

  1. a verbal warning
  2. a fixed penalty notice
  3. an order to go to court, sent to you in the post

You will receive a letter within 14 days of the offence if caught by a camera. This will detail the date, as well as the time and place of your speeding offence. It will also ask for information about who was driving the car if it was not the registered keeper. You must respond to this within 28 days.

You will then receive your fixed penalty notice. This will detail your fine and penalty points. You should also get the option to attend a speed awareness course if applicable to you. In some cases, you might even receive a letter telling you to go to court.

Have you broken any of these strange driving laws

Pleading not guilty

It is possible to plead not guilty to a speeding charge. In this instance, your case will go to court. Be aware, when you choose this option, there are some risks. If found guilty, you’ll face greater consequences. You’ll receive a higher fine and more penalty points than if you had pleaded guilty in the first instance.

Get in touch

Now you know what happens if you get caught speeding in the UK. Our blog is full of useful advice for driving. We’re also always on hand to help you book into an affordable, reliable hire vehicle should you need one. Call our team now on 0208 578 6858.

Book online today