I have previously written blog posts on 14th January 2019 and 26th February 2019 giving an insight into the penalties received by Katie Price when convicted of various driving offences. The latest offence has resulted in Ms Price now receiving a lengthy two year disqualification imposed in Bexley Magistrates’ Court on 10th October 2019.
It is reported that following the crash of her car in October 2018, which ultimately resulted in Ms Price being convicted of being drunk in charge of a vehicle in February 2019, she failed to respond to the police request to confirm the details of the driver. This is a separate offence entirely.
Ms Price entered a guilty plea to this latest offence in August 2019 but the sentencing hearing was adjourned. Ms Price failed to attend that hearing on 10th October 2019 and her lawyer requested a further adjournment but this was refused by the judge given that this date had been agreed by both the prosecution and defence. Ms Price was therefore sentenced in her absence.
The sentence for failing to provide information to the police contrary to section 172 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 is six penalty points and a fine. It is reported that Ms Price received six penalty points on her licence in January 2019 so with the additional six points imposed for this matter, this meant she was liable to a disqualification under the totting up provisions because she has accrued 12 penalty points within three years.
Usually the disqualification period for totting up is six months - so why was Ms Price disqualified for two years? Under the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988, the disqualification period increases if a driver has been subject to a previous relevant disqualification within the last three years.
In Ms Price’s case, a ‘relevant’ disqualification is one of more than 56 days within the three years immediately before date of this most recent offence.
Katie Price’s driving history:
- Six month disqualification imposed in February 2018 for totting up
- Three month disqualification imposed in January 2019 for driving whilst disqualified and driving without insurance; and
- Three month disqualification imposed in February 2019 for being drunk whilst in charge of a vehicle.
Therefore, Ms Price has been subject to three driving disqualifications for a period of more than 56 days in the last three years, meaning a two year driving disqualification for a second ‘totting up’ ban during this period is correct.
Whilst a two year driving disqualification for an offence that normally only carries penalty points may appear on the face of it to be excessive, it is justified with reference to legislation in this case because of Ms Price’s previous driving record.
This highlights the importance of seeking specialist legal advice from the outset and engagement with the legal process.
At Stephensons we have a specialist motoring team who are able to advise and assist with motoring offences. To discuss your case please call our team on 01616 966 229.
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