Driving offence: failing to notify name of the driver – case

The police charged our client with failing to notify the name of the driver. Our client spoke very limited English and suffered from ADHD. When they received the police notice they tried to inform the police that she was not the driver, thereby raising a defence. The police and prosecution however did not accept this and at one point tried to add another offence of not informing the DVLA of the illness whilst driving.

In preparation for trial we obtained a medical report which confirmed that our client suffered from ADHD and needed help with managing their affairs and any paperwork.

At trial we highlighted that our client could not return the required document, due to her illness and limited English, and that she had made reasonable efforts given the circumstances. The Magistrates agreed with our submissions and acquitted her of the offence.