Fail to Stop & Report

Failure to Stop or Report a Road Accident in England and Wales

 

Understanding the Law

 

In England and Wales, it is a legal requirement to stop and provide your details if you are involved in a road traffic accident that causes damage or injury. This obligation is outlined under Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. Failing to stop at the scene of an accident or failing to report the accident to the police as soon as possible and within 24 hours is a serious offence. The offence is often known as an AC10 driving offence.

 

What Constitutes Failure to Stop or Report?

 

Failure to stop or report an accident occurs when a driver:

 

1. Does not stop at the scene of an accident where damage or injury has occurred.

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2. Does not provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to anyone with reasonable grounds for requiring them.

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3. Fails to report the accident to the police as soon as possible and within 24 hours if details were not exchanged at the scene.

 

These requirements are designed to ensure that all parties involved in an accident can be identified and that appropriate action can be taken.

 

Penalties for Failure to Stop or Report

 

The penalties for failing to stop or report a road accident are severe and reflect the seriousness of the offence. These penalties include:

 

• Up to 6 months in prison

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• An unlimited fine

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• Between 5 to 10 penalty points on your driving licence

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• Possible disqualification from driving

 

These penalties underscore the importance of fulfilling your legal obligations following a road traffic accident.

 

Defending Against Charges of Failure to Stop or Report

 

If you are charged with failing to stop or report a road accident, it is crucial to seek legal advice immediately. An experienced lawyer can assess the specifics of your case and explore possible defences.

 

These might include proving that you were unaware that an accident had occurred, that you attempted to stop but were unable to do so safely, or that you reported the accident as soon as it was reasonably possible.

 

In some cases, drivers find themselves facing fraudulent or exaggerated claims. These can be difficult for an unrepresented driver to defend and may need expert forensic evidence to prove the driver’s innocence.

 

Get in touch with Joe Rawlings

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If you have been accused of failing to stop or report a road accident, don't face it alone. Contact Joe Rawlings today for expert legal assistance. Joe specialises in defending failure to stop or report offences and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. 

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