Guide to Failing to Stop/Report

Where you are involved in an accident in or on a motor vehicle or bicycle causing injury or damage to another person, their property or an animal you must stop and give driver details to anyone who has reasonable grounds for requiring it . Where details are not given at the scene then the duty is to report the accident to the police as soon as possible and in any event within 24 hours.

An offence is committed if a person fails to stop but later gives their details or stops but refuses to give driver information. You do not have to be involved in an accident, if you caused it the obligation is the same.

The important information to give would be

  • Your name and address,
  • The name and address of the owner of your vehicle,
  • The registration number of your vehicle

You cannot be arrested for this offence and there is no right for anyone to use force to stop you leaving the scene.

Do I need an NIP (Notice of Intended Prosecution) for failing to stop/report?

No, there is no requirement for an NIP for failing to stop or report an accident.

Punishment

Up to 6 months in prison, a fine up to £5,000, 5-10 points and a discretionary disqualification.

Defences

The most common defences are not being aware of the accident or that it was not reasonably practicable to have reported the accident within the prescribed time. This is an offence where there is a real risk of custody and we recommend you do not put your career and freedom at any greater risk by trying to deal with it yourself. We would advise that you contact our expert team of lawyers for immediate assistance. They will advise you on the law, any defences you may have and how best to put your case forward.

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.