What Is A ‘Stunt Driving’ Charge, And How Can You Defend Against It?

Driving offences can vary from minor infringements to serious criminal offences. 

Out of all the motoring offences, a stunt driving charge is one of the most serious accusations a motorist can face.

But what exactly is a stunt driving charge, and under what conditions may a driver be charged?

To know the answer, read on to this blog, where we have discussed the stunt driving laws in UK, why is it an offence, and how you may be able to defend yourself if you are charged aginst it.

What Are Stunt Driving Laws?

In the UK, although the term “stunt driving” is not used in legislation, the behaviour normally associated with stunt driving is categorised under offences like dangerous driving, careless driving and street racing.

The Road Traffic Act 1988 and associated laws address behaviours that endanger other road users. Under those laws, stunt driving laws include:

• Excessive speeding way above the legal speed limit.

• Street racing or illegal competition.

• Performing stunts such as burnouts, wheelies, drifts, or doughnuts on a public street.

• Tailgating, weaving in and out of lanes, and passing unsafely.

A charge for stunt driving may also be made if the driver demonstrates a "wilful disregard" for others' safety, even without an accident.

Behaviours Leading To Stunt Driving Charge

Some incidents could result in a stunt driving charge under the UK stunt driving laws, such as:

• Driving at recklessly excessive speeds, usually more than 50% over the speed limit.

• Participating in an organised or impromptu road race.

• Deliberately losing control of the car for spectacular effect in a public area.

• Driving with inadequate consideration of traffic conditions, including overtaking in restricted visibility areas.

It is necessary to recognize that these actions, though sometimes sensationalized on the media or the internet, have serious legal implications.

Potential Consequences Of A Stunt Driving Charge

A stunt driving charge under UK law can lead to:

• Disqualification from driving

• Imprisonment for up to two years (especially if serious injury or death occurs)

• Unlimited fines

• Seizure of the vehicle

• A criminal record can impact future employment and travel opportunities.

• Significantly higher insurance premiums

The severity of the penalty will depend on the circumstances, including whether it is a first offence, the speed involved, and whether anyone was injured.

Potential Defences Against A Stunt Driving Charge

Facing a stunt driving charge can be intimidating, but there are some potential defences available based on the circumstances of the scenario:

1. Challenge The Evidence

The most common tactic is to question the evidence:

• Was the speeding test correct?

• Were the road conditions evaluated properly?

• Is there unequivocal, unquestionable evidence that you were the one involved in stunt driving?

If there is something wrong with how the evidence was gathered or the quality of the evidence, such as defective speed-measuring devices or questionable witness statements, it might weaken the prosecution’s case.

1. Argue Lack Of Intent

Proving intent tends to be important in cases of dangerous driving. 

If you can prove that your reckless behavior was not intentional but was rather a result of transient misjudgement or an emergency, this could potentially lower the charge or a lesser offense, such as careless driving. 

1. Question The Identification

In a few instances, particularly where there was more than one vehicle, it may be argued an error of identity. 

Was it conclusively proven that you were the driver at the time of the alleged offence?

1. Demonstrate Exceptional Circumstances

There can be exceptional circumstances that will excuse your driving conduct, for example:

• A sudden, unexpected medical condition

• Avoiding an imminent danger

• Following incorrect instructions from the authorities

Although these grounds can be complicated, they are at times likely to warrant acquittal or less severe penalties.

Summing Up!

Under the UK student driving laws, stunt driving is a serious offence with abiding repercussions. Knowing the nature of the charge and getting legal advice as quickly as possible is essential. 

Every case is unique, and with the correct defence, it might be possible to avoid penalties or even have charges dismissed. 

If you are charged with a stunt driving offence, the best possible solution is to hire an experienced solicitor who specialises in motoring charges to protect your rights and thoroughly examine your case.