What are the chances of getting caught for a motoring offence?

Increasingly likely, judging by the latest Ministry of Justice figures. Take a look.

Careless driving offences - up 101%; vehicle test and condition offences - up 31%; use of handheld mobile while driving offences - up 30%; licence, insurance and record keeping offences - up 10%.

And the burgeoning use of speed cameras meant over 1.7m penalty charge notices were issued for speeding, while the police prosecuted in excess of 100,000 for speeding.

“With the constant changes to the Road Traffic Act and transport laws, the threat of motoring prosecutions is a particular hazard for business drivers on the move,” commented Sean Joyce, partner, Stephensons Solicitors.

For instance, there's the new offence of causing death by careless driving – while using a mobile for example. This has just been introduced and carries a prison term of five years.

Any conviction can have a pontentially serious impact on the livelihood of a driver - and serious financial consequences for the small business employer.

To assist business car drivers on the road, BusinessCarManager.co.uk partner, Stephensons Solicitors, is offering Carry on Driving.

Carry on Driving is a free and exclusive 24-hour legal advice helpline. It provides added peace of mind should you be involved in a road traffic case.

With Carry on Driving you get direct contact with specialist road traffic solicitors for free initial legal advice. Questions are answered within one working day.

When would I need Carry on Driving?

There's a range of motoring offences, but the list includes:

• Speeding
• Using a mobile phone while behind the wheel
• Drink driving
• Driving without tax or insurance
• Careless driving
• Tachograph offences
• Causing death by dangerous driving

Alternatively, if you have notice of intended prosecution or have been contacted by the police, the Carry on Driving helpline can advise on the best course of action.

The benefits of Carry on Driving

• Access to free advice through a 24-hour legal helpline
• A 24-hour rapid response call out service for any driver placed under arrest for a serious road traffic offence at a police station in England or Wales, who is to be interviewed under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act
• Access to discounted fixed-fee legal representation by specialist solicitors or barristers, for any type of road traffic or transport offence

Do I need Carry on Driving membership?

Carry on Driving is available to owners of private cars, as well as business drivers of company vehicles. Membership is immediate and free if you mention Business Car Manager.

To sign up for Carry on Driving membership

• Call: 0845 00 20736
• Email: Carry on Driving
• Web: Carry on Driving

Keep motoring with Carry on Driving.