Driving Without Insurance Solicitor in Wigan

The first question is whether you were insured after all. A valid policy or cover note in force at the time is a complete answer to the charge. Policies are sometimes shown incorrectly on the database, cancelled without proper notice, or extended to cover other vehicles in ways the police do not see at the roadside.

If someone else, such as your employer or a hire company, was responsible for arranging cover, that can also be relevant to the charge.

Many of these prosecutions arise from genuine confusion: a policy that was believed to be in force, a company vehicle the employer said was covered, a broker cancellation never received. If you honestly and reasonably believed you were insured, and that belief was induced by someone else, the court can find special reasons.

Where special reasons are found, the court can decline to endorse any points. For a driver close to 12 points, or whose job depends on driving, that can make a very real difference. The argument has to be prepared carefully with documents and, usually, evidence from you in court.

Driving without insurance carries 6 to 8 penalty points and a fine, and the court has a discretion to disqualify instead. Six points on its own can be enough to reach 12 if you already have points, which brings in a totting up disqualification. New drivers within two years of passing their test should also be aware that 6 points can lead to their licence being revoked.

Police can also seize a vehicle being driven without insurance, and if it is not reclaimed with valid cover and the fees paid, it can be destroyed. If your car has been seized, act quickly and keep every document relating to your insurance.

Motoring cases from Wigan and the surrounding area are usually heard at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates' Court on Darlington Street, Wigan WN1 1DW. Your charge sheet, postal requisition or single justice procedure notice will confirm the court and date.

Sean attends Wigan and Leigh Magistrates' Court and will explain what to expect on the day, including how early to arrive and how the hearing is likely to unfold.

Sean helps clients across Wigan, Leigh, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Hindley and Atherton. The first conversation is a free phone call, and most advice can be given by phone or video, so getting an answer does not mean taking a day off work.

You deal with Sean directly from the first call to the final hearing. He prepares the case himself and gives you a straight answer about your options before you decide how to plead.

This page is general information, not legal advice on your case. Every case depends on its own facts, so speak to Sean about your situation before you decide anything.

STR Legal Ltd is a consultancy, not an SRA-regulated law firm. Legal services are provided through SRA-regulated law firms, as explained on our how we work page.