UKI was convicted of dangerous driving. What sentence can I expect?
Dangerous driving convictions in the UK carry a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment on summary conviction, or up to 14 years if convicted on indictment — with mandatory disqualification and a minimum 2-year driving ban.
What the Law Says
Section 2 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 defines and sets out the penalties for dangerous driving in England and Wales. The offence is triable either way — meaning it can be dealt with in either the magistrates’ court or the Crown Court — depending on seriousness.
Dangerous driving is committed when a person drives 'so badly that a competent and careful driver would not drive in that way' — and 'it would be obvious to such a driver that driving in that way would be dangerous'.
The law distinguishes between summary conviction (in magistrates’ court) and conviction on indictment (in Crown Court), with significantly higher penalties available in the latter.
A conviction triggers an automatic disqualification from driving. The court must impose a minimum ban of two years, though it may order an extended retest before licence restoration.
Statutory TextA person is guilty of an offence if he drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place in a manner which falls far below what would be expected of a competent and careful driver, and it would be obvious to a competent and careful driver that driving in that way would be dangerous.
— Road Traffic Act 1988, s. 2 — Dangerous driving
What to Do
Seek immediate legal advice from a solicitor experienced in motoring offences.
Prepare evidence (e.g., character references, medical reports, or mitigation about circumstances).
Attend all court hearings — failure to appear may result in a warrant and harsher sentence.
If disqualified, complete the required retest before applying to regain your licence.
Consider appealing within 21 days if you believe the sentence was wrong in law or manifestly excessive.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.