Coastguard operational manager James Patton has been handed a driving ban in spite of his attempt to make an exceptional hardship argument.
Appearing at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court, Patton was found guilty of driving without insurance, and was given 6 licence points. He had a previous conviction for the same offence in 2024. Totting up the points for both of these offences brought his total to 12, triggering a mandatory driving disqualification for 6 months. He claimed to be unaware that his licence already had 6 penalty points prior to this latest offence.
Patton, who lives on the Isle of Wight but works in Fareham on the mainland, explained that he owned two cars, one for the mainland and the other for driving around the island. He told the court that he had not realised he was required to have separate policies for both.
He attempted to make an exceptional hardship argument, explaining that it would be difficult for him to get to work without a car. This argument was rejected, with the court ordering him to pay a fine of £656 and a £262 surcharge, plus £85 in costs.
This case highlights the need for expert legal advice when attempting an exceptional hardship argument. Courts are reluctant to accept them, and it is vital that the argument be prepared by an experienced solicitor. If you are facing a totting up ban, contact us at Auriga Advocates, where our team can advise you on whether an exceptional hardship argument could be appropriate to your case.