Two thirds of motorists eat behind the wheel and nearly 15% have crashed or had a near miss as a result of in-car eating, according to research by Admiral. Three quarters of British motorists believe that eating while driving is dangers, says the insurer.
More than half (55%) think it should be against the law to eat behind the wheel of a car.
“Eating while driving is not specifically illegal in the UK but motorists can find themselves charged with careless driving if police don’t think they are in control of their vehicle as a result,” explains Admiral managing director, Sue Longthorn. “Any activity that involves taking your eyes off the road or hands off the wheel will distract you from the job in hand, so if you’re going to eat in the car, you should always park up.”
In Scotland, prosecutions for careless driving are brought under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and generally require that the driving of the person charged fell below the standard expected of ‘a competent and careful driver’.
This can cover a wide range of sub-standard driving and because of this there is a range of possible penalties, including 3 – 9 penalty points, fines or even disqualification, in the most serious cases.
Expert – and early – advice is essential. If you are facing a careless driving charge give McSporrans a call on 0131 557 9151 or click here.
The Lord Advocate is to refer five cases to the UK Supreme Court for a further ruling as to the scope of the Cadder v HMA decision which was handed down by last October by the Supreme Court. Contact expert criminal defence solicitors in Edinburgh on 0131 557 9151.
New clauses have been added to the latest draft of the Scotland Bill which may permit Scottish criminal appeals to be heard in the UK Supreme Court. Contact 0131 557 9151 for a free initial criminal law consultation.
New figures show that there has been a significant increase in recent years in the number of women in Scottish prisons. Contact McSporrans criminal lawyers for a free initial consultation on 0131 557 9151.
Drink driving case clarifies the scope of Cadder. Contact 0131 557 9151 for a free initial criminal law consultation.
On 22 March 2011, the Double Jeopardy (Scotland) Bill passed its third and final stage through the Scottish Parliament. Contact McSporrans criminal lawyers for a free initial consultation on 0131 557 9151.
A new partnership has been set up to try to prevent crimes against animals in Fife in Scotland. Contact McSporrans today on 0131 225 8813 for free initial advice.
Call us today on 0131 557 9151 (24hrs) for a free, no
obligation discussion. Alternatively, request a
callback, email mcsporrans@aol.com
or fill our our online enquiry form.
