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Why was I convicted of failing to stop for an accident?

Last autumn I joined the A5 from a minor road at a busy large roundabout with five exits. As I left the roundabout I felt the slightest bump on my nearside. Four days later I received a Notice of Intended Prosecution for dangerous driving/careless or inconsiderate driving. As requested I attended the local police station with my driving licence and insurance. Before the interview I asked the PC to look at my car and point out any damage. She could find none. To the question: "At the time of the collision did you stop?" I replied ""No.”

I later learned that the Police dropped the case as they did not know who was at fault. I heard nothing from the driver of the other car or her insurers. Five months later I received a summons to attend court to answer a charge of "Failing to stop and failing to report within 24 hours". I could only plead guilty. I was fined £550, costs £160, victim support £15. When my licence was returned it was endorsed with “10 - 8 penalty points" to add to the SP30.

Asked on 30 March 2013 by GD, Westbury

Answered by Honest John
I'm surprised that your solicitor did not recommend you to appeal because this has gone on the facts on paper rather than what actually happened. But I'll run this as a fair warning to anyone else who sustains a minor bump. Best to report it within 24 hours.

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