Driving dangerously on a road is punishable under which section?

• A. S44 Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994
• B. S3 RTA 1988
• C. S2 RTA 1988
• D. S30 RTA 1988

Answer: (C)

Dangerous driving is charged under section 2 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. The offence happens when someone drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road in a manner that is dangerous to the public, judged against the standard of a reasonable, competent driver in all the circumstances. The key is an objective standard: would a careful and competent driver, in the same situation, consider the manner of driving dangerous? It doesn’t require intent to harm—the danger or risk created by the driving itself is enough. This protection applies to any road or place used for road traffic. If the driving is merely careless or inconsiderate, that would be a different offence under the appropriate section.