What are Speeding & Totting-Up Offences?
Speeding is one of the most common motoring offences in the UK, but its impact is often underestimated. While many motorists view speeding as a minor issue, a conviction can have serious consequences, especially if it leads to accumulating penalty points. For drivers already holding points on their licence, a further offence can trigger a Totting-Up disqualification, resulting in a six-month driving ban.
The stress of potentially losing your licence can be overwhelming, especially if you rely on driving for work, family responsibilities or everyday life. Many people charged with speeding or totting-up feel unsure about whether they have a defence, how accurate the detection of the speed was, or whether their personal circumstances could prevent a disqualification.
Speeding offences remain extremely common. In 2024, there were over 2.7 million speeding convictions across England and Wales. This high volume reflects the strict enforcement procedures and the growing use of cameras and roadside detection technology. Obtaining specialist legal advice is essential, particularly where a mistake, incorrect reading or excessive penalty may threaten your driving future.
As specialist motoring offence solicitors, we regularly defend speeding cases and totting-up matters, and can help guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.
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Why have you been charged?
You may have been charged with speeding because:
- A police officer recorded your speed
- A fixed speed camera captured your vehicle
- A mobile roadside speed van detected your speed
- You were stopped and given a verbal Notice of Intended Prosecution
- You received an NIP (Notice of Intended Prosecution) in the post
Speeding is a strict liability offence. This means the prosecution does not need to prove intent — only that you exceeded the speed limit.
What does totting-up mean?
If you accumulate 12 or more penalty points within a three-year period, the court must impose a minimum six-month driving ban unless you successfully argue Exceptional Hardship. To learn more about Exceptional Hardship click here.
This is where specialist representation is crucial.
Defences for Speeding & Totting-Up?
There are several defences and legal arguments that may apply depending on the circumstances. Some of the most common include:
Incorrect Speed Measurement
If the device or its handling was non-compliant, the reading may be unreliable.
Defective Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP)
Driver Identification Issues
Speed Limit Signage Problems
Procedural Errors
Exceptional Hardship Arguments (Totting-Up)
• Extreme financial difficulty
• Loss of employment
• Serious impact on dependants
• Hardship to vulnerable family members
• Disproportionate consequences beyond the normal inconvenience
Courts demand strong, well-presented evidence for Exceptional Hardship arguments – this is a key area where expert representation often makes the difference between keeping and losing your licence.
Contact Our Specialist Solicitors Today
If you have been charged with speeding, are facing penalty points, or are at risk of a totting-up driving ban, our specialist motoring solicitors are here to help. We offer clear, realistic advice that focuses on protecting your licence, reducing penalties and achieving the best possible outcome.
We have extensive experience challenging speed readings, scrutinising police procedures and presenting strong Exceptional Hardship cases in court.
For expert legal guidance and a free initial consultation, contact Momentum Solicitors today.
Why Choose Momentum Solicitors?
Years Motoring
Defence Expertise
Our team have extensive experience and expertise in motoring law defence.
A Firm Built on
Personal Experience
Momentum was founded because Chris lived through the system himself and knows how it feels to be on the receiving end of it.
Free Initial
Assessment
Our 4-Step Process
4
Outcome
Achieved
Our goal is always the best possible result – whether that’s reduced penalties, avoiding disqualification, or having charges dismissed entirely.





