Mitigating Circumstances - Letter to Magistrates

[Anonymous]

Here is a copy of a letter i've sent to the judge.

"Dear Sir,

Re: North Yorkshire Police Vs Myself – Exceeding 60mph speed limit on 3rd July

I write with reference to the above mention case, and in response to the Summons to court received Saturday 16th July 2005.

I wish to submit a guilty plea to the charge of exceeding the speed limit as per the evidence presented against me.

There is no excuse for my behaviour on that day, and I write today to apologise whole-heartedly for it. It was stupid, dangerous, and not something I condone. After being given points for similar offences last year, I slowed down, and took stock of my driving/riding. However one moment of madness resulted in me being placed before the Magistrate’s Court again.

I have talked about my biking hobby to my father, namely Mr David Michael Lillie. He now has custody of the keys for the bike, and all the documentation for it. We have agreed that he is to negotiate the sale of the vehicle with immediate effect. I do not intend, nor wish, to purchase or ride another motorbike until I can demonstrate to myself that I am trust worthy enough.

I accept that I need to be punished for my crime, but would urge you to take the following into account.

After being through a hard time with work, losing my job and then being unable to find alternative employment on a reasonable wage for 6 months, I have been exceptionally stressed and depressed, I have now found employment with a company called Global Procurement Group, and feel that my future here is bright, and promising, and I am finally getting my life back on track. I am hoping to achieve the role of Accounts Manager before the end of the year, for this I will require a driving license. I appreciate that the offences committed are punishable by a driving Ban, but would plead that you order a shorter ban and a higher fine/financial punishment, in order not to compromise my eligibility for this promotion.

I am aware that you have avenues from which to choose when passing sentence on my case.

1. A shorter ban for this offence, and a higher financial punishment, resulting in my license being returned, still with the 11 previous points endorsed, after the ban period has been run, but allowing me to remain eligible for promotion at Global Procurement Group.

2. Order a set of points to be endorsed on my license, which will mean that I am to lose my license under “totting up” for a period of no less than 6 months. This would result in me not being eligible for promotion at my new place of work.

I ask if you could pass sentence option number 1, and once again, I offer my most sincere apologies for the unacceptable behaviour shown on 3rd July 2005 by myself.

Please find enclosed a character reference from Mr H. Tunnifcliffe, Operations Director at Global Procurement Group, he is my direct manager and responsible for the smooth running of the company.

I trust all of the above meets with your approval, and I further trust you will make an informed decision which is in the publics and my best interests.

Yours Respectfully,"

[Ceri JC]

Well done. I hope they take it seriously and that you adhere to your part of the bargain, good luck.

[Jabba]

If you are haven't already sent the letter and are able to do so, I'd recommend removing the following text:

"I am aware that you have avenues from which to choose when passing sentence on my case.

1. A shorter ban for this offence, and a higher financial punishment, resulting in my license being returned, still with the 11 previous points endorsed, after the ban period has been run, but allowing me to remain eligible for promotion at Global Procurement Group.

2. Order a set of points to be endorsed on my license, which will mean that I am to lose my license under “totting up” for a period of no less than 6 months. This would result in me not being eligible for promotion at my new place of work.

I ask if you could pass sentence option number 1, and once again, I offer my most sincere apologies for the unacceptable behaviour shown on 3rd July 2005 by myself. "

It kinda sounds like you're trying to manouvre the outcome for your own advantage rather than being genuinely remorseful for the event of that fateful day. Also, the Judge might not take too kindly about your suggesting how s/he should do his/her job.

Just my view.

[Anonymous]

Hmm... i see where you're coming from Jabba.

Any one else feel the same?

[BillyC]

Hmm... i see where you're coming from Jabba.

Any one else feel the same?

I see Jabba's point, and am leaning in the direction of agreement (breaking the habbit of a lifetime).

[Scoobs]

Hmm... i see where you're coming from Jabba.

Any one else feel the same?

I see Jabba's point, and am leaning in the direction of agreement (breaking the habbit of a lifetime).

:stupid:

[jonboy]

Personally I'd actually go to court and try and win them over a little.


.

[Cronos]

Hmm... i see where you're coming from Jabba.

Any one else feel the same?

Much as it pains me to admit it :P Jabba makes a good point.

[Anonymous]

Oh im going to court as well... i just wanted to send a letter for the case file before i am due.

[jonboy]

Oh fair enough, good luck then ;).


.

[Jabba]

Hmm... i see where you're coming from Jabba.

I see Jabba's point, and am leaning in the direction of agreement (breaking the habbit of a lifetime).

:stupid:

Much as it pains me to admit it :P Jabba makes a good point.

:shock:

:takeabow:

[DeeJay]

I agree with Jabba...

Also in your letter you said you have just got a new job and are using your manager for a character reference, the judge may look at that wierd cos as far as he is concerned the guy bearly knows you and know no history on you...


I would also take this out...

After being through a hard time with work, losing my job and then being unable to find alternative employment on a reasonable wage for 6 months, I have been exceptionally stressed and depressed, I have now found employment with a company called Global Procurement Group, and feel that my future here is bright, and promising, and I am finally getting my life back on track. I am hoping to achieve the role of Accounts Manager before the end of the year, for this I will require a driving license. I appreciate that the offences committed are punishable by a driving Ban, but would plead that you order a shorter ban and a higher fine/financial punishment, in order not to compromise my eligibility for this promotion.

and instead ask him to take into account the fact that your selling your bike and that you are deaply sorry.... then inform him about your 'inevitable' promotion at work which would require a driving licsence.... as what you have written are not mitigating circumstances for committing the crime.

Also re-word the last sentence and take out 'publics and my best interests' because it makes out like your looking out for number 1 and in his eyes (given your previous) the publics best interest would be to have you off the road.

also, you may wish to start the letter 'Your Honour' not 'dear sir'.

[Anonymous]

Think ill just not send the letter... :?

Unless anyone could type one up on my behalf? [-o<

[Mogs]

I would consider dropping the word Dangerous as they are not charging you with that - why admit to it.

[Anonymous]

Revised letter to Judge.

Dear person about to screw with my life.

Im sorry.

Respecfully,

[howardr]

Whilst I still think you were stupid to do it in the first place ...

I would recommend a letter from your employer.

If they stated that you had told them all about your 'moment of madness' and that they understood this was a mere 'blip' in your usual good character.

They could go on to ask that you be looked upon leniently as you were in line for a possible promotion and that, as a valued member of their workforce, they would like to give you the opportunity to progress etc etc.

I would suggest this would probably be viewed more favourably than you grovelling.

[Scoobs]

This thread is turning into a Jabba appreciation society. I think it should be deleted immediately!

[Jabba]

This thread is turning into a Jabba appreciation society. I think it should be deleted immediately!

Can't stand the competition, eh? :wink:

[Anonymous]

Taken into account most of the comments, here is the new revised letter.

"Dear Sir,

Re: North Yorkshire Police Vs Myself – Exceeding 60mph speed limit on 3rd July

I write with reference to the above mentioned case, and in response to the Summons to court received Saturday 16th July 2005.

I wish to submit a guilty plea to the charge of exceeding the speed limit as per the evidence presented against me.

There is no excuse for my behaviour on that day, and I write today to apologise whole-heartedly for it. It was stupid, irresponsible, and not something I condone. After being given points for similar offences last year, I slowed down, and took stock of my driving/riding. However one moment of madness resulted in me being placed before the Magistrate’s Court again.

I accept that I need to be punished for my crime, but would urge you to take the following into account.

Having talked about my biking hobby to my father, namely Mr David Michael Lillie, he now has custody of the keys for the bike, and all the documentation for it. We have agreed that he is to negotiate the sale of the vehicle with immediate effect. I do not intend, nor wish, to purchase or ride another motorbike until I can demonstrate to myself that I am trust worthy enough.

After being through a hard time with work last year, losing my job and then being unable to find alternative employment on a reasonable wage for 6 months, I have been exceptionally stressed and depressed; I have now found employment with a company called Global Procurement Group. I have been here for a while now, and have made significant contributions to the development of the company, as a result I feel that my future here is bright, and promising, and I am finally getting my life back on track. I am hoping to achieve the role of Accounts Manager before the end of the year, for this I will require a driving license. I appreciate that the offences committed are punishable by a driving Ban, but would plead that you order a shorter ban and a higher fine/financial punishment, in order not to compromise my eligibility for this promotion.

Please find enclosed a character reference from Mr H. Tunnifcliffe, Operations Director at Global Procurement Group, he is my direct manager and responsible for the smooth running of the company.

I trust all of the above meets with your approval, and I once again wish to extend my sincere apologies to the Magistrates Court for my actions.

Yours Respectfully,"


Comments please? Thanks.

[Scoobs]

This thread is turning into a Jabba appreciation society. I think it should be deleted immediately!

Can't stand the competition, eh? :wink:

I can't remember a single Scoobs appreciation post mate! Must have missed that one. :lol:

[Jabba]

This thread is turning into a Jabba appreciation society. I think it should be deleted immediately!

Can't stand the competition, eh? :wink:

I can't remember a single Scoobs appreciation post mate! Must have missed that one. :lol:

Thought that the "IB Girlies" had you as their pin-up? :D

Anyway, I appreciate you :kiss:

[Scoobs]

Thought that the "IB Girlies" had you as their pin-up? :D

Anyway, I appreciate you :kiss:

I was just fishing mate.

[Biker Biggles]

I assume your legal advice was not to challenge the "out of range " laser then?
And never admit to doing anything "dangerous".Thats tantamount to mass murder these days.

[K]

Having read them both through, I think that the second letter is more appropriate. However:

Are you going to be including it with a separate covering letter stating that you will be attending court?

Regarding the sale of your bike, you make no mention of any actions to improve you actual riding skills - so it may be taken to mean that you are simply going to flog your bike and buy another one once the ban is over.
I would suggest you sign up with the IAM pronto, so that you possibly have some form of evidence (receipt etc) by the time of your court case, and say you are looking into the options of hiring a bike for observed ride/advanced test.

Just my instinctive reaction and advice. Though don't write anything just for the sake of it, only put what you are going to do.

Hope that helps some.

[Anonymous]

It says on the letter that i dont intend to, nor wish to, buy or ride a motorcycle. I dont.

Ive decided to give it all up and get into my other love... hang gliding. Ive not done it for 5 years and it would be great to get back into the skys.

I will be sending the letter in together with my summons which states that i wish to attend court - but ive also asked for them to change to location of the hearing as they've sent me to Skipton, and there's no way i can get out there, its impossible. I cant take the whole day off work, so it would be a case of go to court, then back to work once done... to get the train/bus to skipton would take all day pretty much, and cost too much (solicitors fees, court costs, fine etc...)

[K]

I do not intend, nor wish, to purchase or ride another motorbike until I can demonstrate to myself that I am trust worthy enough.

It's this last bit that I took to mean that you were intending on returning to biking.
I was therefore thinking speculatively of an amendment along the lines of "demonstrate to the IAM that I am trustworthy enough. To which end I have made an application to join... yadda yadda yadda."


If you are seriously saying that you aren't going to get beck on a bike again, or for at least say, five years, then I'd amend it to "I do not intend, nor wish, to purchase or ride another motorbike for my forseeable long-term future."


Umm, does that make sense? :?

[Twit]

As far as the letter is concerned I agree with the above... BUT...

I wouldn't bother sending a letter. Bottom line here is that you are going to get a ban, no letter or court attendence is going to alter that. On that basis I would be more tempted to front up at court and speak to the panel directly. Be contrite but don't grovel; set out the facts and nothing more. Don't go on about how life has been hard but now back on track etc etc, it won't carry any weight and it will just look like you are trying to get out of a due punishment.

In the end the only thing that may sway it in your favour is if the magistrate thinks you are genuinely sorry, even then it will still be a ban. Sorry if this sounds harsh but it probably is reality.

[DeeJay]

Well you know y advise and you have listened to non of it...

At least take this on board, a judge is called YOUR HONOUR!!!!!! not Sir!! For all you know, it could be a female Judge!!

And again, what you have written about loosing your job etc is not counted as Mitigating Circumstance for this crime

[Anonymous]

Well you know y advise and you have listened to non of it...

At least take this on board, a judge is called YOUR HONOUR!!!!!! not Sir!! For all you know, it could be a female Judge!!

And again, what you have written about loosing your job etc is not counted as Mitigating Circumstance for this crime

Do i mention in the letter Mitigating Circumstances Deejay? No.

Dear Sir, is the generic way of which to start letters for whom you dont know the name of the recipient, besides, its not going to be a judge - its a board of magistrates.

I was told to write this letter by the solicitor.

[DeeJay]

My appologies, your title for the thread says mitigating circumstances...

You should be clearer about your titles young man :wink:

[muddycoffee]

If you seriously are going to give up motorcycling, why don't you ask the Judge to remove your Motorcycle Entitlement from your licence. I know it's drastic, but it at least shows that you are not going to repeat your mistake, and might save you a ban.

[Ed]

If you seriously are going to give up motorcycling, why don't you ask the Judge to remove your Motorcycle Entitlement from your licence. I know it's drastic, but it at least shows that you are not going to repeat your mistake, and might save you a ban.

I don't think the justices can do this.

You refer to lay justices as 'your worships'. If it's a stipe, then it's 'Sir'.

Needed to clear up that one :wink:

[Cloggsy]

Taken into account most of the comments, here is the new revised letter.

"Dear Sir,

Re: North Yorkshire Police Vs Myself – Exceeding 60mph speed limit on 3rd July

I write with reference to the above mentioned case, and in response to the Summons to court received Saturday 16th July 2005.

I wish to submit a guilty plea to the charge of exceeding the speed limit as per the evidence presented against me.

There is no excuse for my behaviour on that day, and I write today to apologise whole-heartedly for it. It was stupid, irresponsible, and not something I condone. After being given points for similar offences last year, I slowed down, and took stock of my driving/riding. However one moment of madness resulted in me being placed before the Magistrate’s Court again.

I accept that I need to be punished for my crime, but would urge you to take the following into account.

Having talked about my biking hobby to my father, namely Mr David Michael Lillie, he now has custody of the keys for the bike, and all the documentation for it. We have agreed that he is to negotiate the sale of the vehicle with immediate effect. I do not intend, nor wish, to purchase or ride another motorbike until I can demonstrate to myself that I am trust worthy enough.

After being through a hard time with work last year, losing my job and then being unable to find alternative employment on a reasonable wage for 6 months, I have been exceptionally stressed and depressed; I have now found employment with a company called Global Procurement Group. I have been here for a while now, and have made significant contributions to the development of the company, as a result I feel that my future here is bright, and promising, and I am finally getting my life back on track. I am hoping to achieve the role of Accounts Manager before the end of the year, for this I will require a driving license. I appreciate that the offences committed are punishable by a driving Ban, but would plead that you order a shorter ban and a higher fine/financial punishment, in order not to compromise my eligibility for this promotion.

Please find enclosed a character reference from Mr H. Tunnifcliffe, Operations Director at Global Procurement Group, he is my direct manager and responsible for the smooth running of the company.

I trust all of the above meets with your approval, and I once again wish to extend my sincere apologies to the Magistrates Court for my actions.

Yours Respectfully,"


Comments please? Thanks.

Will you be attending court on the day :?: If so, I'd mention that too... Other than that, good letter :thumbsup:

Hope I never have to write one :roll:

[timwilky]

Young Man!.

You have a disgraceful history of excessive speed and you are being fast tracked accordingly. I honestly cannot see any mitigating circumstances why you should not recieve the full weight of the sanctions available to the court.

Can you honestly hold your hand up and swear that you will never speed again should you retain your licence or receive a short ban. I doubt it.


Harsh, but this will be the courts view. Your excessive speeding career is no different to a drunken driver. You would expect him to receive a ban as he is a danger to himself and other road users, and so are you.

I do hope things go well for you at the time. But, please expect a sever ban and fine. Don't do what a friend of mine did and drove to court, got banned, and then started to drive home. He was pulled by the same police officer driving off the court car park and received an extra year ban for driving whilst disqualified .

[Fruity]

Even with 12 points you CAN keep your driving licence... I know this for a fact :oops: Just make sure you have a Solicitor who can put your case across. I had a very good one when I was insured with the AA (it came part of the deal). He got me onto 12 points, kept my licence and the fine wasn't too hefty. The only problem with this was that I had another speeding pending so when that came up I had a 6 month ban. The joys of despatching. :x

[Patch]

Even with 12 points you CAN keep your driving licence... I know this for a fact :oops: Just make sure you have a Solicitor who can put your case across. I had a very good one when I was insured with the AA (it came part of the deal). He got me onto 12 points, kept my licence and the fine wasn't too hefty. The only problem with this was that I had another speeding pending so when that came up I had a 6 month ban. The joys of despatching. :x

Yes you can but, this letter is not sufficient to do so. Exceptional hardship is the only mitigation that will allow you to retain your licence with twelve points.

Not getting a promotion, even losing your job is not deemed as exceptional hardship, in fact the beak is more likely to see this claim in the "should have thought of that shouldn't you" bracket.

You need to show that exceptional hardship will be felt by other people not you if you are to get this mitigation to work.

This is BASAT advice by the way, having been ifront of the beak twice facing a ban in the past, once for totting (avoided ban and drove for 2 years on 12 points) and the second for average 102 mph on a motorway (banned for 7 days), this advice is based on legal advice to me.

The most important thing is that you need legal representation and you need it before you submit your mitigation letter. The very fact that you see this as serious and fork out 4-500 quid for a solicitor to manage a guilty plea will likely stand you in good stead with a magistrate.

[timwilky]

I agree with patch. Get a good solicitor to speak for you before the beak. I had a collegue nicked for 120MPH in his car. Kept his licence but severe GBH of the wallet

[Anonymous]

Whilst I still think you were stupid to do it in the first place ...

I would recommend a letter from your employer.

If they stated that you had told them all about your 'moment of madness' and that they understood this was a mere 'blip' in your usual good character.

They could go on to ask that you be looked upon leniently as you were in line for a possible promotion and that, as a valued member of their workforce, they would like to give you the opportunity to progress etc etc.

I would suggest this would probably be viewed more favourably than you grovelling.

Done, sealed and delivered:

"To Whom it may concern,

Joe is currently employed by Global Procurement Group in our sales Department. He undertakes telesales and sales support activities in our offices in the centre of York. The company provides its procurement service to end-customers through licenced affiliates and provides comprehensive support to these Affiliates through our team of Account Managers. Joe is currently undergoing training as one of these Account Managers and in this role he will be required to visit Affiliates and their clients in locations throughout the North East. This involves a significant amount of driving and your decision regarding the punishment for his speeding offence may subsequently delay his promotion prospects.

I must admit to being somewhat surprised when he informed me of his impending court appearance, as it seemed very much out of character. He is an extremely hard working young professional who has every opportunity of a good career in selling/account management ahead of him. I can only assume that his actions were caused by the impetuousness of youth, but in discussing it with him, I can assure you that he is taking the situation most seriously, and it is a salutary experience for him.

Obviously I would not wish to influence your decision in anyway, but if the impending ban could be kept to a minimum with possibly a "larger" financial penalty being imposed, this would have a lesser impact on his future prospects.

Many thanks for your consideration.

Kind Regards,

Mr H. Tunnicliffe
Operations Director
Global Procurement Group Ltd."

I think this is quite a nice character reference.

[Cloggsy]

Exceptional hardship is the only mitigation that will allow you to retain your licence with twelve points.

Unless you're a member of the House of Lords/Commons that is... Or maybe you're a member of the 'funny hand shake brigade' - no, not one of your funny hand shakes GYKD ;)

[Anonymous]

Young Man!.

You have a disgraceful history of excessive speed and you are being fast tracked accordingly. I honestly cannot see any mitigating circumstances why you should not recieve the full weight of the sanctions available to the court.

Can you honestly hold your hand up and swear that you will never speed again should you retain your licence or receive a short ban. I doubt it.


Harsh, but this will be the courts view. Your excessive speeding career is no different to a drunken driver. You would expect him to receive a ban as he is a danger to himself and other road users, and so are you.

.

I dont know how you can say that. Have you ridden with me? Ask any of the people i used to ride with and they will vouch that while fast, i am not dangerous. The police officers even said as much when they stopped me.

I pride myself on my riding, yes im an excessive speeder, but thats all im guilty of. Not being dangerous.

[DeeJay]

Young Man!.

You have a disgraceful history of excessive speed and you are being fast tracked accordingly. I honestly cannot see any mitigating circumstances why you should not recieve the full weight of the sanctions available to the court.

Can you honestly hold your hand up and swear that you will never speed again should you retain your licence or receive a short ban. I doubt it.


Harsh, but this will be the courts view. Your excessive speeding career is no different to a drunken driver. You would expect him to receive a ban as he is a danger to himself and other road users, and so are you.

.

I dont know how you can say that. Have you ridden with me? Ask any of the people i used to ride with and they will vouch that while fast, i am not dangerous. The police officers even said as much when they stopped me.

I pride myself on my riding, yes im an excessive speeder, but thats all im guilty of. Not being dangerous.

If you speed in excess all the time then you are being a danger, no matter how safe you think you are.....

And for your employer to say that this is out of character is an obvious lie as you already have 11 points for speeding... and that is how the board will look at it.

However, this is not a battering GYKD for speeding thread this time...

But people have given you sound advise about the letter/not writting it/showing a legal advisor and you appear to have not used any of the advise given.

And i seriously doubt a police officer is going to tell you that you are a safe rider after you have just caused him to chase you for miles.... that is like him watching a scumbag rapist doing his thing then arresting him and saying 'by the way, nice technique' not going to happen

[timwilky]

Young Man!.

You have a disgraceful history of excessive speed and you are being fast tracked accordingly. I honestly cannot see any mitigating circumstances why you should not recieve the full weight of the sanctions available to the court.

Can you honestly hold your hand up and swear that you will never speed again should you retain your licence or receive a short ban. I doubt it.


Harsh, but this will be the courts view. Your excessive speeding career is no different to a drunken driver. You would expect him to receive a ban as he is a danger to himself and other road users, and so are you.

.

I dont know how you can say that. Have you ridden with me? Ask any of the people i used to ride with and they will vouch that while fast, i am not dangerous. The police officers even said as much when they stopped me.

I pride myself on my riding, yes im an excessive speeder, but thats all im guilty of. Not being dangerous.

Joe, it is Joe isn't it.?

I am not having a go or saying that your riding is dangerous. Simply that the courts have no knowledge of your riding abilities and will take the view that you are a known habitual speeder and punish you accordingly.

A character witness may be able to verify that this last act of speeding was now not your normal behavoir. But unfortunately you have to balance that against the records that the court hold that show you have been given 3 other prior "warnings" about your speed.

Mitigating circumstances as such would be where a ban could cause severe penalty upon third parties. Such as if you were required to transport an elderly or disabled close family member as the sole or principle driver. Loosing ones job is generally not looked on as mitiging circumstances as the loss of a licence does not prevent you from working, but simply limits the type of work you can do.

As I said in my earlier post. I hope all goes well for you. Get yourself good legal representation. They are generally more proficient at convincing their worships as to how remorseful thier client is, than you could ever hope to do yourself.

[Mogs]

Young Man!.

... please expect a sever and fine.

Which bit of him should he expect them to cut off. Ouch :D

[Anonymous]

Young Man!.

You have a disgraceful history of excessive speed and you are being fast tracked accordingly. I honestly cannot see any mitigating circumstances why you should not recieve the full weight of the sanctions available to the court.

Can you honestly hold your hand up and swear that you will never speed again should you retain your licence or receive a short ban. I doubt it.


Harsh, but this will be the courts view. Your excessive speeding career is no different to a drunken driver. You would expect him to receive a ban as he is a danger to himself and other road users, and so are you.

.

I dont know how you can say that. Have you ridden with me? Ask any of the people i used to ride with and they will vouch that while fast, i am not dangerous. The police officers even said as much when they stopped me.

I pride myself on my riding, yes im an excessive speeder, but thats all im guilty of. Not being dangerous.


And i seriously doubt a police officer is going to tell you that you are a safe rider after you have just caused him to chase you for miles.... that is like him watching a scumbag rapist doing his thing then arresting him and saying 'by the way, nice technique' not going to happen

Well thats exactly what PC Broadhead of North Yorkshire Police said. "In all fairness to you, you werent dangerous, just too plain fast"

[Captain Nemo]

having read ALL related threads and posts, i have come to a conclusion, and whilst this is only my opinion, and others deffinately have there own.

a ban is a long time coming. and the least you deserve. to even consider running from the cops , let olone on a 400cc, whilst being chased by a prepped subaru. what was going through your head!!!!!

habitual speeder, i dont know how long youve had a license but it hasnt taken you long to reach the finish line, i have speeding points but i have learned from them ( mainly where not to go too fast) and it could be said that they are an occupational hazard for the leisure biker, but you dont appear to have learnt anything from your pulls. and as for trying to outrun the cops, the police attempted to pull you beacause they felt that your speed was a danger to yourself or other road users, how can racing off help that.....

bad luck and all that, but one potential less red patch on a lampost.

[Anonymous]

Comments from all who've posted them read, and understood.

To those who think that fast riding=dangerous... try signing onto the IAM course. I did and learnt a lot from them... mainly, how to ride fast yet safe.

My instructor, a chap called Phil on a ducati supersport 800, explained a few very good things... little sayings like "sacrifice line for safety" and "hope to go, plan to stop"

I got nothing but praise from him for my riding ability, my observation etc... yes i still have things to learn - we all do. Anyone who thinks that we never stop learning is deluding themselves.

But if you sign onto the IAM course, you will soon realise that riding fast, is NOT dangerous.

To those who have called me wreckless, dangerous, a hazard etc... ill bear your comments in mind, and when i get back into bikes - about 4 years from now, well go for a ride... and you will be made to eat your words.

I know that im not dangerous, the police who pulled me knew i wasnt dangerous, AND SAID AS SUCH. I do know people who ARE dangerous, and the things they do are just stupid.

Also, im not a leisure biker or weekend warrior... i use the bike as main transport, and for 4 years of my riding/driving career, bikes were my sole form of transport. My average milage on bikes each year has been in the region of 35-40 THOUSAND.

[Anonymous]

I beg to differ.

[Twit]

I don't think anyone is really having a go here...

I think we would all agree that the appropriate use of speed is not dangerous, BUT the court (which is what you are talking about) will not see it that way. They deal in facts and the facts are that according to your record you look like a habitual speeder. They will therefore, deal with you as such and you will get banned - harsh but that is the law.

No one can comment on your riding unless they have been out with you, but again that is not the role of the court. As far as they are concerned you have been caught breaking the law, a law that you have a record of breaking on other occasions, therefore, you will be punished as a repeat offender - simple as that.

Coupled with all of that, you ran from the Police. That act will mean pleading mitigating circumstances will be useless. Again the court will assume that you KNEW you were breaking the law (i.e it wasn't a simple mistake) and you attempted to evade capture. Frankly I think you are shafted, it'll be at least a year and a fine.

Also, above all else make sure you get proper legal representation at court. It'll be worth the money... As has been said you have been fast tracked through the court, what you don't want is a nightmare...

[Kate]

I can't be arsed going and finding the thread, but I thought that GYKD was just being done for excessive speeding, no mention was made of running from the police?

IMO speeding does NOT equal dangerous. Going 75 mph on a motorway is considered speeding, does that mean its also dangerous? oh please.

Good luck with this GYKD

[Anonymous]

Sorry having read your past comments I think you need the book throwing at you. You have a history of speeding, you have admitted to a DR10 offence (Driving/Attempting to Drive with excess alcohol), you say you practiced riding your bike by jumping up on the tank and riding with no hands, and you have run from the police - I fail to see how anyone would not come to the conclusion that you are a rider we would prefer not to see on the public roads.

[Biker Biggles]

I regularly ride down the High Street at 40 MPH while pulling a wheelie,then pull up at the traffic lights with a big stoppie.
I like to top 160MPH on every ride out of town when it is'nt raining,and I love to "filter " at 90 MPH In slow moving traffic.

I tend to exagerate a lot.In fact I talk a good line in utter drivel.
Should I be banned from the road?

I just have this feeling that some of GYKD''s stories involve some poetic license,but I could have it all wrong.

[Anonymous]

FAO Mpaton2005 You have taken select words from various posts and used them against me. Your latest posting is completely out of context and you know it. I consider this a deliberate attempt by you to turn the other members of the forum against me, perhaps you feel threatened by me as most people took myside of the arguement that speed is NOT DANGEROUS!!!!!!!

Yes i have had a few offences for speeding - the last was over 12 months ago.

The DR10 was not drink driving, althought that is the conviction. I had had 1 1/2 pints and was PUSHING the MOPED back to the pub where i worked to i could get a taxi home. The police stopped me and arrested me as i had the keys on my person, therefore it is INTENT TO DRIVE. Hence the DR10 - besides, that conviction is now SPENT under the Rehabilitation of offenders act 1974 and i have not reoffended, or even had as much as 1ml of alcohol whilst driving/riding.

Read the post about riding with no hands again, and read the context in which it was posted. You will find that you have talked absolute ******** and twisted what I had originally said. When i did practice those manouvers, they were on closed private roads at slow speeds. Someone else posted about riding around with one hand - I should hope that they have recived an equal grilling from your sad self.

You will find that if you come riding with me, i am safe, steady, not rushed, smooth, but fast. I do not cross double white lines, overtake on blind bends/summits etc. I have not crashed a bike due to "pilot error", not have i forced other people to take evasive/avoiding action whilst im on the roads.

Yes i have been stopped speeding before, but i have also been complimented by a fully qualified IAM instructor about the high level of my riding/observational ability. I have more experience under my belt for the 4 years ive been on 2 wheels than most 40yo bikers have who have been riding since the age of 60.


ADMIN Please can you lock this thread now.

Thanks to all who have posted comments which are interesting, fruitful, well thoughtout and have aided to the underlying mature debate.

To the people who thought this was a good opportunity to have a personal bash at people who ride faster than they do... before you go calling us all dangerous, wreckless, foolish etc - ENROL ON AN IAM COURSE.. they will prove facts which i, and others, have been saying.

[DeeJay]

So really what your saying by 'well go for a ride... and you will be made to eat your words' is that you have cleared learned nothing out of any of the 11 points and inevitable ban you've earned yourself.....

I think the one thing i have learned from this is that you are clearly an @rse who needs to be kept off the roads and off a bike. And i don't give a to$$ what you say, there is no way in hell a copper is going to tell you that your a safe rider after failing to stop, more like 'now haven't we been a silly boy'

And if your bike is your main transport, then you really diserve to loose it for not being more careful, knowing what points you were on.

And you are VERY lucky that they are not persuing the running from them!! Now this is my last post on this topic, cos it is becoming tiresome.

[Anonymous]

Please don't ever send personal threats to me via a PM again.

[rubberduckofdeath]

I'd like to just have my say before this is locked...

a) speed is not necessarily dangerous (yawn... same old ground)

b) what you did was stupid but I'm sure there are lots of other people who would consider doing it too, depending on circumstances

c) by explaining what happened (or what you say happened), you're opening yourself up to people giving your their opinions on the situation, whether you like it or not, if you don't want to respond to them, don't...

d) you're either very unlucky or not observant enough if you've been busted this many times...

Just some of my thoughts... ;)

[Anonymous]

Just so everyone knows i didnt threaten mpaton2005, i just said that if he had a problem with me, as his forum post had taken everything id posted over the last few months, and used against me completely out of context, then i would rather he said so to my face.

I didnt threaten him/her...

[Anonymous]

*Sigh* Again you are selective with what you post (like on Pepipoo). I will be making no further comments on this matter.

[Anonymous]

Ok ok.. before i log out of the forum for a few months (fed up with certain people attitudes on here this last few months, not just towards me but to other people as well).. here is the EXACT copy of what i sent to Mpaton2005.. IT IS NOT A THREAT.

You have taken select words from various posts and used them against me. Your latest posting is completely out of context and you know it. I consider this a deliberate attempt by you to turn the other members of the forum against me, perhaps you feel threatened by me as most people took myside of the arguement that speed is NOT DANGEROUS!!!!!!!

Yes i have had a few offences for speeding - the last was over 12 months ago.

The DR10 was not drink driving, althought that is the conviction. I had had 1 1/2 pints and was PUSHING the MOPED back to the pub where i worked to i could get a taxi home. The police stopped me and arrested me as i had the keys on my person, therefore it is INTENT TO DRIVE. Hence the DR10 - besides, that conviction is now SPENT under the Rehabilitation of offenders act 1974 and i have not reoffended, or even had as much as 1ml of alcohol whilst driving/riding.

Read the post about riding with no hands again, and read the context in which it was posted. You will find that you have talked absolute ******** and twisted what I had originally said. When i did practice those manouvers, they were on closed private roads at slow speeds. Someone else posted about riding around with one hand - I should hope that they have recived an equal grilling from your sad self.

You will find that if you come riding with me, i am safe, steady, not rushed, smooth, but fast. I do not cross double white lines, overtake on blind bends/summits etc. I have not crashed a bike due to "pilot error", not have i forced other people to take evasive/avoiding action whilst im on the roads.

Yes i have been stopped speeding before, but i have also been complimented by a fully qualified IAM instructor about the high level of my riding/observational ability. I have more experience under my belt for the 4 years ive been on 2 wheels than most 40yo bikers have who have been riding since the age of 60.

If you want to insult me, call me a liar, dont do it on open forum, PM me and i will give you my mobile number. We can arrange to meet up and you can say it to my face.

Mpaton2005 - get a life. For everyone else's sake if not your own

And thats it.. ive said what i need to say, hope everyone has a nice summer. keep it rubber side down, and take care out there.

[/b]

[Anonymous]

I've got a great life thanks. :D

[BillyC]

Going.... going.... going.... GONE!