In a recent case, a Transport Commissioner removed an Operator’s License from a driver who had engaged in a “road rage” incident following what was otherwise a minor traffic incident.
The driver, Kevin Griggs, was involved in a slight collision with another vehicle at the roundabout.
Griggs then forced that other vehicle off the road at the exit to the roundabout, jumped out of his cab swinging a table leg, threatened the other driver in an aggressive manner and at one point hit the other driver on the back with the table leg. He then drove off in a manner which was unsafe for other traffic. Griggs was subsequently convicted at Snaresbrook Crown Court of assault by beating, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, using threatening behaviour and driving without due care and attention. He received 4 points on his licence for the motoring offence, one month’s imprisonment (suspended for 12 months) for possession of the weapon, one month’s imprisonment (also suspended for 12 months) for using threatening behaviour, and six months’ imprisonment (again suspended for 12 months) for the assault. He was also ordered to complete 100 hours of community service. Mr Griggs failed to notify any of these convictions to the traffic commissioner.
In revoking Griggs Operating Licence, the Deputy Traffic Commissioner ruled:
“…the incident was of an exceptionally serious and shocking nature. The public have a right to drive on the road without an operator using his skip lorry to force another vehicle to stop in a wholly inappropriate location causing danger to other road users. Other road users should not be subject to the abuse and violence dealt out by Mr Griggs, no matter what the excuse … The inescapable conclusion is that Kevin Roy Griggs is not fit to hold an operator’s licence.”
If you are facing an investigation for any traffic-related incident, it is essential that you seek representation at the earliest possible stage so that we can work on your behalf to secure the best outcome. This case is a timely reminder that for some drivers the consequences can extend far beyond the criminal court and put at risk your livelihood.
How can we help?
Here at Broadbents Solicitor, we ensure we keep up to date with any changes in legislation and case law so that we are always best placed to advise you properly. If you would like to discuss any aspect of your case, or are in need of criminal legal aid, please give us a call today on: Alfreton: 01773 832 511, Derby: 01332 369 090 and Heanor: 01773 769 891. Alternatively, you can complete our online enquiry form where a member of our team will be in contact shortly.
Image credit: “hgv vehicle training” by slickimages is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
