Guide to Leaving a Vehicle in a Dangerous Position

It is an offence to leave a vehicle or trailer in a position on a road where it could cause injury to someone using the road. Examples are leaving a vehicle parked on a blind bend or next to a humpback bridge. It also includes things like leaving a vehicle parked on a slope without putting the handbrake on.

To prosecute you, the authorities have to show that you:

  • left the vehicle on a road; and
  • that the position it was left in caused the danger of injury to other persons who were using the road.

Do I need an NIP (Notice of Intended Prosecution) for Leaving a Vehicle in a Dangerous Position?

Yes, there is a requirement for an NIP for Leaving a Vehicle in a Dangerous Position unless one of the exceptions apply. Please go to our NIP guide for further information.

Punishment

Fine up to £1,000, 3 penalty points and discretionary disqualification from driving.

Defences

The Prosecution have to prove a number of elements to make out this offence. There can be difficulties in showing that there was a danger to other road users and there may also be a defence available if there was a mechanical problem with your vehicle that you did not know about.

Defences often turn on the particular circumstances of an alleged offence, so we recommend you take specialist legal advice from us before simply accepting an allegation that the Prosecution may not be able to prove. Even if you have committed the offence, we are still able to assist by advising you on what elements of your personal circumstances the Court are likely to take into account when considering punishment.

Disclaimer The contents of these pages are provided as an information guide only and are limited to offences committed in England and Wales. No responsibility is accepted for any errors, omissions, or misleading statements on these pages or any site to which these pages connect, including any feature or aspect of such site or pages, whether provided by Motor Defence Solicitors or by any organisation, company or individual. No mention of any organisation, company or individual, whether on these pages or on other sites to which these pages are linked shall imply any approval or warranty as to the standing and capability of any such organisations, company or individual on the part of Motor Defence Solicitors.