What is Death by Dangerous Driving?
Death by dangerous driving is a serious criminal offence in the United Kingdom, prosecuted under the Road Traffic Act. It occurs when a person drives a vehicle in a manner that is dangerous to the public, and that dangerous driving causes the death of another person. This offence acknowledges the profound loss experienced by the victim’s loved ones and aims to deliver justice for their passing. The courts treat such cases with the utmost gravity, reflecting the devastating and irreversible consequences of reckless behaviour on the road.
The core elements required for a conviction are twofold: firstly, that the driving was indeed dangerous, and secondly, that this dangerous driving directly led to a fatality. The driving must fall below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver, or be aware of a danger that a competent and careful driver would have avoided. It is not necessary for the driver to have intended to cause harm; the focus is on the dangerousness of the driving itself and the resulting death. Understanding these foundational aspects is critical for anyone seeking clarity on this grave legal matter.
Defining 'Dangerous Driving'
For the purposes of this offence, 'dangerous driving' is a legal term with specific connotations. It encompasses a wide spectrum of behaviours, from excessive speed and aggressive overtaking to driving while significantly impaired by fatigue or distraction. The driving must be judged as dangerous based on the objective standard of a competent and careful driver. This means the prosecution will present evidence to demonstrate how the defendant's actions fell below this acceptable standard. Factors commonly considered include the manner of driving, the conditions at the time (weather, road surface, visibility), the presence of other road users, and any mechanical defects that the driver was aware of but failed to address.
It is important to distinguish dangerous driving from careless driving. Careless driving, while still an offence, does not meet the threshold of being dangerous and typically results in less severe penalties. Dangerous driving implies a more significant departure from acceptable driving standards, where the risk of harm is substantially elevated. The determination of whether driving was dangerous is a matter for the court, often involving expert testimony from collision investigators and driving instructors to assess the actions of the driver against established norms.
Establishing Causation
Crucially, the prosecution must prove that the death was caused by the dangerous driving. This is known as establishing causation. It means there must be a direct link between the way the vehicle was driven and the fatal outcome. For example, if a driver speeds through a red light and collides with another vehicle, causing a fatality, the dangerous driving (speeding and running a red light) is clearly causative of the death. However, if an intervening event occurs, such as a medical emergency unrelated to the driving that leads to a crash, the link might be broken. The legal interpretation of causation can be complex, and it often hinges on whether the dangerous driving was a substantial and operative cause of the death. The court will examine the sequence of events meticulously to determine if the driving conduct was the primary reason for the fatality.
- The offence requires both dangerous driving and a resultant fatality.
- Dangerous driving falls below the standard of a competent and careful driver.
- Causation must be proven: the driving must directly lead to the death.
- Distinction from careless driving lies in the severity of the risk created.
- Courts treat this offence with the highest level of seriousness.
Penalties and Sentencing for Death by Dangerous Driving
The penalties for death by dangerous driving are severe, reflecting the gravity of the offence and its impact. Sentences are imposed by the courts based on sentencing guidelines, which take into account various aggravating and mitigating factors. The maximum sentence for death by dangerous driving is 14 years’ imprisonment. This highlights the legal system's commitment to deterring such behaviour and punishing those who cause death through their actions on the road. It is a stark reminder of the profound responsibility that comes with operating a motor vehicle.
In addition to immediate custodial sentences, convicted individuals will typically face a driving disqualification. The length of this ban is determined by the court, but it is often lengthy, and a re-test is usually mandatory upon expiry of the disqualification period. This ensures that individuals who have demonstrated a disregard for road safety are not immediately permitted to drive again without a thorough re-evaluation of their abilities and understanding of road laws. The long-term consequences extend far beyond the prison sentence, impacting a person’s ability to work, travel, and maintain their personal life.
Understanding Sentencing Guidelines
The dangerous driving sentencing guidelines provide a framework for judges and magistrates to ensure consistency in sentencing. They categorise offences based on their seriousness, typically starting with a baseline offence and then adjusting the sentence based on aggravating and mitigating factors. Aggravating factors might include previous convictions for similar offences, driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, fleeing the scene of the accident, or causing the death of a child. Mitigating factors could include a guilty plea at the earliest opportunity, remorse, age, or the impact of a sentence on dependents.
For instance, a case involving extreme speed in a built-up area, combined with intoxication and a history of driving offences, would likely attract a significantly harsher sentence than a case where the dangerous driving was less extreme, but still resulted in a fatality. The courts must consider the specific circumstances of each case, weighing the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defence to arrive at a just and proportionate sentence. The aim is not just punishment, but also deterrence and rehabilitation where possible. These guidelines, such as those for causing death by dangerous driving sentencing, are crucial for understanding the potential outcomes. Cases like Daniel Mohammed receiving a prison sentence for a dangerous driving incident underscore the reality of these penalties.
Consequences Beyond Custody
The repercussions of a conviction for death by dangerous driving extend significantly beyond the immediate custodial sentence and driving ban. A criminal record of this nature can have profound and lasting effects on an individual's life. This includes difficulties in obtaining future employment, particularly in roles requiring trust or driving responsibilities. It can also impact international travel and visa applications. For individuals who are not UK citizens, deportation is also a potential consequence following a serious criminal conviction. The offence leaves an indelible mark, affecting personal relationships, mental well-being, and future prospects. Even after serving a sentence, the stigma and practical limitations can persist for many years, underscoring the long-term impact of such actions.
Always seek legal advice from a qualified solicitor specialising in road traffic offences as soon as possible if you are facing allegations of dangerous driving or death by dangerous driving.
What Constitutes Dangerous Driving?
The definition of dangerous driving is broad, encompassing any driving that falls significantly below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver. This standard is objective, meaning it's not about whether the individual driver *thought* they were driving safely, but whether their actions would be considered unsafe by a reasonable and experienced driver in the same circumstances. The Highway Code provides guidance on safe driving, and deviations from these principles can be indicative of dangerous driving.
Common examples include driving at excessive speeds, particularly in inappropriate conditions or areas like residential streets or schools. Other instances involve aggressive driving behaviours such as tailgating (following too closely), undertaking (overtaking on the inside), weaving through traffic, or making dangerous overtakes on blind bends or crests of hills. Driving while significantly impaired is also a key factor; this includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving when suffering from a medical condition or extreme fatigue that affects driving ability. For example, if a driver is aware they have a condition that can cause sudden incapacitation, but drives without taking appropriate precautions, this can be considered dangerous.
Impairment and Distraction
Driving while impaired, whether by alcohol, illegal drugs, or even certain prescription medications, is a significant factor in many fatal road traffic incidents. The law sets specific legal limits for alcohol and drug concentrations in the blood, but driving, even within these limits, can be considered dangerous if it impairs your ability to drive safely. Similarly, driving while severely fatigued can have cognitive effects comparable to being under the influence of alcohol, increasing reaction times and impairing judgment. A driver who continues to drive when they are aware they are becoming dangerously tired, perhaps by falling asleep at the wheel, can be found to be driving dangerously.
Distraction is another prevalent cause. This can range from using a mobile phone (handheld or hands-free), to fiddling with navigation systems, adjusting the radio, or attending to passengers. While not all distractions automatically equate to dangerous driving, if the distraction causes the driver to deviate significantly from safe driving standards and create a risk of harm, it can be classified as such. For instance, a driver whose attention is so focused on their mobile phone that they fail to see a red traffic light or a pedestrian stepping into the road, leading to a fatal collision, would likely be considered to have driven dangerously.
Mechanical Defects and Awareness
A driver’s awareness of a vehicle’s mechanical defects can also lead to a charge of death by dangerous driving. If a driver knows their vehicle has a fault that could compromise safety – such as faulty brakes, worn tyres, or defective steering – and they continue to drive the vehicle without addressing the issue, they may be found guilty if that defect causes an accident resulting in death. This is particularly true if the driver has been warned about the defect by a mechanic or has experienced prior symptoms. The responsibility lies with the driver to ensure their vehicle is roadworthy; knowingly driving a vehicle with a dangerous fault is inherently risky behaviour.
Consider the case of a known tyre blow-out risk or steering issue. A driver aware of such a problem must take reasonable steps, such as stopping driving and arranging repairs. Failure to do so, and subsequently being involved in a fatal accident because of that specific defect, would likely be classified as dangerous driving. This aspect of the offence underscores the holistic approach the law takes, looking not just at the immediate actions of the driver but also at their responsibility for the vehicle’s condition and their awareness of its limitations.
The objective standard of a competent and careful driver forms the bedrock of assessing dangerousness on the road.
When Does Dangerous Driving Cause Death?
Establishing the causal link between dangerous driving and a fatality is a critical element for securing a conviction for death by dangerous driving. The prosecution must prove that the death was a direct consequence of the dangerous driving. This requires demonstrating that the manner of driving was a substantial and operative cause of the death, meaning it played a significant role in bringing about the fatal outcome. It is not enough for the dangerous driving to merely be present; it must be the reason for the death.
Consider a scenario where a driver is speeding and loses control, colliding with another vehicle and causing a fatality. Here, the speeding and loss of control are clearly causative. However, if, for example, a driver was speeding but the other party ran a red light causing the crash, the chain of causation might be complex. The court would need to determine the extent to which each party's actions contributed to the death. The law looks at whether the dangerous driving was a significant factor, not necessarily the *only* factor, but it must be more than a minimal or incidental contribution.
Foreseeability of Harm
A key consideration in establishing causation is the foreseeability of harm. If a driver engages in dangerous behaviour, the resulting death is generally considered a foreseeable consequence. For example, driving at extremely high speeds in a busy urban environment inherently creates a substantial risk of serious injury or death. If a fatality occurs as a result of this behaviour, the link is often clear. Conversely, if an entirely unforeseeable event occurs during the course of otherwise normal driving, and that event leads to a death, then the dangerous driving element might not be met. For instance, if a driver is following all road rules but a sudden, unforeseeable meteorite strike causes their vehicle to veer off course and hit someone, the driving itself was not dangerous and did not cause the death.
The courts often consider what is known as the 'but for' test, though it's not the sole determinant. 'But for' the driver's dangerous actions, would the death have occurred? If the answer is no, it strongly suggests causation. However, this test can be complicated by multiple contributing factors. For instance, if a driver causes a collision due to dangerous driving, but the victim later dies in hospital due to a rare, unforeseen complication during surgery, the causal link to the initial driving might be debated. The prosecution will aim to show that the injuries sustained *because of* the dangerous driving were the primary cause of death, irrespective of subsequent medical events unless they fundamentally break the chain.
Intervening Acts and Break in Causation
A break in the chain of causation can occur if an independent, unforeseeable event happens after the dangerous driving that becomes the direct cause of death. For example, if a driver causes a minor accident through careless driving (not necessarily dangerous), and then a third party, acting negligently or intentionally, causes a further collision that results in a fatality, the original driver might not be held responsible for the death. However, if the original dangerous driving itself created the situation where the subsequent event was likely or foreseeable, the chain may not be broken. A secondary accident occurring *because* of the first dangerous driving incident, such as multiple vehicles crashing in a traffic jam caused by the initial dangerous act, would still typically be linked to the original driver.
The courts will meticulously examine the sequence of events. If the dangerous driving leads directly to the injuries that cause death, even if those injuries are severe and complex, the link is usually maintained. The focus is on whether the dangerous driving created the perilous situation that ultimately led to the loss of life. The sentencing guidelines, including those for causing death by dangerous driving sentencing, are designed to address this complex interplay of factors. The responsibility lies in the defendant’s contribution to the fatal event through their driving conduct.
Document any evidence, such as dashcam footage or witness accounts, that can support or refute the claims of dangerous driving or causation. This can be vital for your defence.
Who is Vulnerable to Death by Dangerous Driving?
Certain individuals are inherently more vulnerable to the dangers posed by reckless drivers. The most obvious group are other road users who are not protected by the metal shell of a vehicle. This includes pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. These individuals are directly exposed to the force of a collision and are far more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries or fatal outcomes even in less severe accidents.
Pedestrians, especially children and the elderly, are particularly at risk. Children may dart into the road unexpectedly, and elderly individuals may have reduced mobility or slower reaction times, making them less able to avoid a collision. Cyclists and motorcyclists, while having more control over their movements than pedestrians, are exposed, lacking the protection of a vehicle's bodywork, airbags, or seatbelts. A collision that might be a minor incident for a car occupant can be fatal for someone on a bike or on foot. The danger is amplified when the driver is speeding, distracted, or driving under the influence, as their ability to perceive and react to these vulnerable road users is severely compromised.
Vulnerable Road Users in Detail
Cyclists, for example, are frequently subjected to dangerous driving manoeuvres. Close passes, 'undertaking' on the inside in traffic, or drivers failing to check blind spots before turning across their path all create significant risks. A driver who is not paying adequate attention, or who is driving aggressively, can easily misjudge distances or speeds, leading to a collision that can have devastating consequences for the cyclist. Guy Martin driving ban incidents, while not necessarily death-related, often stem from behaviours that highlight a disregard for road safety that could escalate.
Motorcyclists face similar risks. Their smaller size means they can be harder to spot, and they are also exposed in a crash. A driver failing to see a motorcycle due to a blind spot or distraction, or cutting them off, can lead to a severe accident. The speed at which motorcyclists often travel, combined with their vulnerability, makes them particularly susceptible to fatal outcomes from dangerous driving.
The Impact on Families and Communities
Beyond the immediate victims, death by dangerous driving has a profound and lasting impact on families, friends, and wider communities. For the families of victims, the loss is immeasurable, compounded by the knowledge that it was preventable and caused by the reckless actions of another. This can lead to prolonged grief, trauma, and a sense of injustice. The emotional and psychological toll on survivors, including those who witness such events, can be severe. Communities also suffer, as tragic incidents can create fear and tension, especially in areas where speeding or other dangerous behaviours are prevalent. The prosecution of the offender is often a small part of the long healing process for those affected.
The legal process itself can be a source of distress for families. While they are not the primary actors, their experiences and views are often considered within the court proceedings, particularly regarding the impact of the offence. The responsibility for these deaths lies with the drivers whose actions fell below acceptable standards, but the ripple effect of their choices extends to countless others, highlighting the collective responsibility we all share for road safety and the profound consequences when that responsibility is abdicated.
If you are a witness to dangerous driving, report it to the police immediately. Your information could prevent a tragedy.
Legal Avenues and Defence Strategies
Facing a charge of death by dangerous driving is an extremely serious legal situation. If you are accused of this offence, it is imperative to seek expert legal representation immediately. A specialist solicitor will guide you through the complex legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and that the best possible defence is mounted. The defence strategy will depend heavily on the specific facts of the case and the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Potential defence arguments might challenge the prosecution's assertions on two key fronts: the 'dangerous driving' aspect and the 'causation' aspect. For example, the defence may argue that the driving, while perhaps not ideal, did not reach the legal threshold of being dangerous. This could involve presenting evidence to show that the driver acted reasonably given the circumstances, or that the alleged dangerous behaviour was a momentary lapse rather than a sustained pattern of recklessness. Alternatively, the defence might argue that the death was not caused by the driving, but by an intervening event or a pre-existing condition of the victim that broke the chain of causation. This is a complex legal argument that requires careful evidence assessment.
Challenging the 'Dangerous Driving' Allegation
A primary defence strategy often involves contesting whether the driving was truly 'dangerous' as defined by law. This requires demonstrating that the driver's actions met the standard of a competent and careful driver, or that any deviation was minor and did not create a substantial risk of harm. Evidence may be presented through expert witnesses, such as forensic accident investigators or experienced driving instructors, who can analyse the circumstances of the incident and offer an opinion on the driving standard. For example, if the prosecution alleges excessive speed, the defence might argue that the speed was appropriate for the road conditions, or that the vehicle’s speedometer was inaccurate, or that the measurement of speed was flawed.
Defences might also centre on the driver's state of mind or awareness. If the driving was impaired by a sudden, unforeseen medical event (like a first-time seizure or sudden collapse) that the driver had no prior knowledge of, this could potentially negate the 'dangerous' element if it can be proven they took all reasonable precautions. However, if the driver was aware of a pre-existing condition that could affect their driving, such as diabetes or epilepsy, and drove without adequate management or precautions, this would likely strengthen the prosecution's case. The courts are rigorous in examining all evidence to determine if the driving objectively constituted danger.
Disputing Causation
Another significant avenue for defence is to challenge the prosecution's assertion that the driving caused the death. This involves arguing that another factor was the primary or sole cause of the fatality. For instance, if the victim had a severe, undiagnosed medical condition that was exacerbated by the stress of a minor collision, and this condition led to death, the defence might argue the driving was not the direct cause. Similarly, if there was a significant delay in emergency services reaching the scene, or if the victim received substandard medical treatment, these could potentially be presented as intervening factors that broke the chain of causation, although this is a very difficult argument to sustain.
The defence must present compelling evidence to support such claims. This might involve independent medical expert reports, analyses of emergency response times, or evidence from accident reconstructionists. The goal is to create reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury or judge regarding the direct link between the alleged dangerous driving and the death. It is crucial to remember that the burden of proof rests with the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. However, the defence must also be prepared to present its own evidence and arguments effectively.
Understand that the legal definitions and pathways are complex. Rely on your legal team to navigate these, and provide them with all requested information truthfully.
The Role of the DVLA and Driving Records
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) plays a central role in managing driving records and enforcing road traffic laws in the UK. For any driver, particularly those facing serious allegations, their driving record is scrutinised. This includes any previous endorsements, convictions, or disqualifications. A history of traffic offences, especially those related to dangerous or careless driving, can be a significant aggravating factor in sentencing for death by dangerous driving.
The DVLA maintains a record of driving offences for every licence holder. This record is accessible to the police and courts. Therefore, a history of persistent minor offences, such as speeding tickets or penalty points, could paint a picture of a driver who has a pattern of disregard for road safety rules. While a conviction for death by dangerous driving is a standalone, grave offence, previous convictions for offences like 'dvla pensioner car tax prosecution' (though this relates to tax evasion, it illustrates the DVLA's oversight) or other motoring crimes can inform the court's view of the defendant's culpability and the appropriate sentence. It is part of the overall context of the driver's behaviour.
Driving Disqualifications and Licence Revocation
A conviction for death by dangerous driving invariably leads to a lengthy driving disqualification. The DVLA is responsible for implementing these disqualifications. Following a period of disqualification, an individual typically must pass a further driving test, including both theory and practical elements, before their licence is restored. This is to ensure that they are once again competent and aware of road safety regulations. In some instances, particularly for repeat offenders or exceptionally serious cases, the DVLA may revoke a licence entirely, requiring a new application process, which may involve medical assessments.
The DVLA also manages the system of penalty points. Accumulating too many penalty points on a licence can lead to a disqualification. However, for an offence as serious as death by dangerous driving, the disqualification is a direct consequence of the conviction itself, rather than merely an accumulation of points. The authorities use the DVLA’s comprehensive records to monitor compliance with driving bans and to track individuals who may pose a persistent risk to public safety on the roads.
Implications for Other Licences and Permits
The consequences of a death by dangerous driving conviction can extend beyond a standard driving licence. For individuals who hold vocational licences, such as those for HGV drivers or taxi drivers, a conviction can result in the revocation of these specialist permits. This can have a devastating impact on their livelihood, as these roles often require a clean driving record. The Department for Transport, in conjunction with the DVLA, has stringent requirements for such professional licences, and a serious conviction like death by dangerous driving would almost certainly lead to disqualification from these professions.
Even if not directly linked to a specific licence, a criminal record for such an offence can affect an individual's ability to obtain certain security clearances, apply for jobs involving children or vulnerable adults, or even secure certain types of insurance in the future. The DVLA's role is not just about issuing licences; it is about ensuring road safety through monitoring and regulation. The information held by the DVLA is a key component in the judicial process for serious road traffic offences, influencing sentencing and future driving privileges.
The conviction for death by dangerous driving is not merely an end to one's driving privileges; it is a profound disruption to one's entire life trajectory.
Preventing Death by Dangerous Driving
Preventing death by dangerous driving requires a multi-faceted approach involving individual responsibility, societal awareness, and robust legal enforcement. At the individual level, the most critical factor is adopting a mindset of caution, respect, and responsibility every time a vehicle is operated. This means adhering strictly to speed limits, avoiding distractions such as mobile phones, never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and ensuring the vehicle is in a roadworthy condition. It also involves recognising one's own limitations, such as fatigue or stress, and choosing not to drive if these factors could impair driving ability.
Education plays a pivotal role from an early age. Comprehensive driver education programmes that go beyond basic mechanical skills to instil a deep understanding of the risks associated with different driving behaviours are essential. This includes highlighting the devastating impact of fatal collisions on victims' families and the severe legal and personal consequences for offenders. Road safety campaigns, often run by charities and government bodies, are vital for raising public awareness about the dangers of speeding, drink-driving, and distracted driving. These initiatives aim to foster a cultural shift towards safer driving habits.
Education and Training Initiatives
Modern driver training is increasingly focusing on hazard perception and risk assessment. Courses that simulate dangerous scenarios can help new and experienced drivers alike to develop the skills needed to anticipate and avoid potential accidents. Advanced driving courses, often pursued by those seeking to improve their skills or professional drivers, can teach techniques for vehicle control in emergency situations and promote a more defensive driving style. These types of training are invaluable in equipping drivers with the knowledge and reflexes to navigate the complexities of modern roads safely. Initiatives like the ones that might indirectly inform judging driving bans, such as those involving Guy Martin driving ban discussions, often stem from a broader conversation about road safety and responsibility.
Public awareness campaigns often use powerful imagery and personal testimonies to convey the stark reality of road traffic fatalities. These campaigns target specific behaviours, such as the dangers of texting while driving or the consequences of driving tired. By making the risks tangible and relatable, they aim to encourage individuals to make safer choices. The goal is to move beyond mere compliance with laws to an intrinsic understanding of why these laws are in place and the profound importance of responsible driving.
The Role of Technology and Infrastructure
Technology also offers significant potential for preventing accidents. Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features like anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and increasingly, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and lane-keeping assist systems. These technologies can help drivers avoid collisions or mitigate their severity. Furthermore, intelligent speed assistance (ISA) systems, which can warn drivers of or even limit their speed to comply with speed limits, hold considerable promise. The adoption and development of such technologies are crucial for improving overall road safety.
Infrastructure improvements also contribute to reducing the likelihood of fatal accidents. This includes better road design, clearer signage, improved lighting, and the implementation of traffic calming measures in residential areas and near schools. Segregated infrastructure for vulnerable road users, such as dedicated cycle lanes and footpaths, can significantly reduce the risk of collisions between vehicles and those on foot or bicycle. A combination of technological advancements, infrastructure planning, and vigilant, responsible driving behaviour is key to minimising the occurrence of death by dangerous driving.
Always check your vehicle's tyres, lights, and brakes before embarking on a journey; proactive maintenance can prevent catastrophic failures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here, we address some common queries surrounding the offence of death by dangerous driving. Understanding these points can provide greater clarity on the legal framework and its implications.
What is the difference between careless driving and dangerous driving?
Careless driving falls below the standard of a careful and competent driver but does not create a danger of death or serious injury. Dangerous driving falls significantly below that standard, and a competent and careful driver would recognise the danger involved. The consequences for dangerous driving are far more severe.
Can you receive a prison sentence for death by dangerous driving?
Yes, death by dangerous driving is a Category 1 offence carrying a maximum sentence of 14 years’ imprisonment. Custodial sentences are common for this offence, reflecting its severity.
How long is the driving disqualification for death by dangerous driving?
Sentencing guidelines indicate a minimum disqualification period for death by dangerous driving. Courts will consider the severity of the offence, but disqualifications are typically lengthy, often requiring a re-test upon expiry.
Does the victim's behaviour matter in a death by dangerous driving case?
While the driver's actions are the primary focus, the victim's behaviour might be considered if it significantly contributed to the collision and broke the chain of causation. However, this is complex and rarely negates the driver's dangerous driving entirely.
What if the driver did not intend to cause death?
Intention to cause death is not required for a conviction. The offence focuses on the dangerousness of the driving and the fact that it caused a death, not on the driver's intent to kill.
Can a death by dangerous driving conviction be overturned?
Appeals against conviction or sentence are possible, but they must be based on specific legal grounds, such as a misdirection of law or new evidence. The process is rigorous and requires substantial grounds.
What happens to your driving licence after a conviction?
Your driving licence will be revoked. You will be disqualified from driving for a period set by the court. You will need to reapply for your licence and pass all required tests once the disqualification period is over.