Also frequently referred to as ‘driving without due care and attention’, here are the codes, particular traffic offence and the penalty points incurred. Offence codes CD0-DR30 and CD80 –CD90 must stay on a driving licence for 4 years from date of conviction, while CD40-CD70 and DR90 must remain on a driving license for 11 years.
| Penalty code | Offence committed | Penalty points |
| CD10 | Driving without due care and attention | 3-9 |
| CD20 | Driving without reasonable consideration for other road users | 3-9 |
| CD30 | Driving without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for other road users | 3-11 |
| CD40 | Causing death through careless driving when unfit through drink | 3-11 |
| CD50 | Causing death through careless driving when unfit through drugs | 3-11 |
| CD60 | Causing death through careless driving with alcohol level above limit | 3-11 |
| CD70 | Causing death by careless driving then failing to supply a specimen for analysis | 3-11 |
| CD80 | Causing death by careless, or inconsiderate driving | 3-11 |
| CD90 | Causing death by driving; unlicensed, disqualified or uninsured drivers | 3-11 |
Totting-up penalty points
Remember, the more penalty points you tot up, the more impact it will have on your bike insurance. And, if you build up 12 or more penalty points within a period of three years, you’ll be liable to be disqualified under the totting-up system. This is shown on your licence as TT99.
What is classed as careless driving?
Even though it’s one of the most common offences to affect car and bike insurance premiums, you may be surprised to hear that the law doesn’t actually state what constitutes careless driving. However, the courts rule that this offence is committed when the standard of driving falls below the standard expected of a reasonable and competent driver. Therefore careless driving can include any or all of the following:
See you in Court
Unlike some minor traffic offences that incur on-the-spot Fixed Penalty Fines, the offence of careless driving is one that can normally only be heard in the Magistrates’ Court. The penalties that can be imposed by the court range from a fine of up to £2500 and 3-9 penalty points to disqualification and being ordered to take a re-test before resuming driving. Aggravating and mitigating factors will be taken into account before sentencing.
Got a careless driving conviction and looking for value for money motorbike insurance?