How Long Do They Have To Prosecute Me

Question:

I had a road accident on the 18th dec x. I hit a car due hitting some black ice , during the bad snow in december. I did not have any pen or paper on hand, so left the scene to go home and write my details down. When I returned to the scene the vehicle was not there.

The police contacted me by post, the date on the letter was 19/02/x. The letter was a requirement for name and address of driver. The offences were .

1 driving a mechanically propelled vehicle on a public road without due care and attention.

2.Failing to stop after an accident and exchange particulars

3.failing to report to police as soon as reasonably possible and within 24 hours.

My question is how long do the police have to Prosecute or start proceedings. I was told 2 months. As today is the 19th April x which is 2 months, can they still charge me? Please let me know ASAP?

Dominic Says:

Yes they can I’m afraid. The information for the summons has to be laid at the magistrates court within 6 months of the date of the alleged offence so you have got a while to wait I’m afraid.

Have you got any points on your licence? You are at risk of 5-10 points for these matter.

You would have a defence to the due care and attention if we can show that the accident wasn’t your fault.

Come back to me if I can help further.