Football star Marcus recently made headlines for reasons off the pitch, as he was banned from driving for speeding on the M60 in Manchester. The incident has sparked conversations about the dangers of speeding and the legal repercussions drivers face in the UK.
Marcus Rashford’s speeding incident
Marcus Rashford, a prominent figure both on and off the field, found himself in hot water when he was caught driving at 104mph, well in excess of the 70mph speed limit. Rashford admitted to the offence and was handed a 6-month ban. He will also have to pay a fine of £1,666, court costs of £120 and a £66 surcharge.
What could a speeding offence mean for you?
Speeding is a serious offence in the UK and can result in a range of penalties. These penalties vary depending on the severity of the speeding and whether it’s a repeat offence. Here’s a breakdown of the possible consequences:
- Driver awareness course
In less serious circumstances, and particularly for first time offenders driving a minimal amount above the limit, a course may be offered.
- Fixed penalty notice (FPN)
For minor speeding offences, drivers might receive an FPN. This typically includes a £100 fine and three points on the driver’s license.
- Court summons
More serious speeding offences, such as those significantly over the limit or in dangerous conditions, can lead to a court summons. Penalties in court can be much steeper, including higher fines, more points on the license, or even a driving ban.
- Penalty points
Accumulating 12 or more penalty points within three years can result in disqualification from driving. New drivers, within their first two years, can have their license revoked if they accumulate six or more points.
- Disqualification
In extreme cases, where speeding is deemed exceptionally dangerous, immediate disqualification can be imposed.
So, why has Marcus Rashford been disqualified?
This isn’t the first time Rashford has hit the headlines in relation to his driving. In February 2023, Rashford admitted to speeding at 34 mph in a 20 mph zone in Manchester City Centre. He received six points on his driving licence, alongside a fine of £574. It is likely that Rashford’s recent disqualification is a result of ‘totting up’ – meaning that he had accumulated 12 or more penalty points. In these circumstances, the Court must impose a minimum disqualification.
The importance of seeking legal advice…
For Rashford, the consequences will not be detrimental. His income will allow him to hire a driver and pay for transport to get around. However, for a lot of people this is an impossible expense. If you need your licence to work, or you have a lot of commitments which require you to drive, your licence is crucial.
Exceptional Hardship Applications
We can assist with an exceptional hardship application to argue against a driving ban due to accumulating 12 or more points. You may be eligible if the following examples of exceptional hardship apply to you:
- Loss of employment leading to financial instability
- Inability to care for dependents, such as children or elderly relatives
- Significant impact on business, potentially leading to job losses for employees
If you’ve been accused of a speeding offence, it is extremely important to seek specialist legal advice before responding to any paperwork. Contact our specialist Road Traffic Defence Team today for a free initial consultation. Call us today at 0161 930 5151, email us at crimeandregulatoryteam@gorvins.com or fill in the online form.