Traffic Commissioner Driver Conduct Hearing – Bristol – December 2020
Chris Powell represented a professional HGV driver at his Driver Conduct Hearing. This was in front of the Traffic Commissioner in December 2020.
Background of the case
Almost 2 years before, the driver was in a road rage incident in his private car which had ended in an accident. The driver had pleaded guilty to a charge of dangerous driving at the Magistrates’ Court. The sentencing was a period of disqualification from driving lasting 18 months. Additionally, he received a community service order.
At the end of his disqualification, the HGV driver applied for the return of his professional driver’s licence. As a result, he was called to a Driver Conduct Hearing in Bristol with the Traffic Commissioner.
At first, the Traffic Commissioner indicated that a period of indefinite disqualification from HGV driving was a likely possibility. But, he afforded the driver the opportunity to seek legal representation.
Seeking legal representation
The driver approached Rothera Bray Solicitors. Transport solicitor Chris Powell represented the driver. Chris Powell took a full case history. He was able to help the driver gather character references and supporting evidence.
At the hearing, Chris Powell presented the HGV driver’s case and led him through his evidence. He highlighted the significant mitigating features. He also referred the Commissioner to the relevant statutory guidance documents.
Successful outcome
At the conclusion of the hearing, the Commissioner thanked all parties for the presentation of the case. He was happy with the display of evidence and supporting information. As a result, he only imposed a period of suspension of four weeks.
This was an extremely good outcome. It meant that the driver would be able to return to driving heavy goods vehicles four weeks after regaining his private car licence. This was a credit not only to the way that the case presentation. But to the driver’s open and honest approach and the steps that he had taken since the incident to get help.
At Rothera Bray we have extensive experience representing professional drivers holding both HGV and PCV licences at Driver Conduct Hearings held by the Traffic Commissioner across all traffic areas. We are able to offer fixed fees and free initial consultations, contact us by phone 0115 910 6210 or email enquiries@rotherabray.co.uk.