A Wigan man appeared in Wrexham Magistrates Court for speeding on the A483. He avoided a ban but received points and a fine.
Brian Robinson, the prosecutor, spoke in court. Hamilton drove a Skoda too fast, going 59 mph in a 50 mph zone. He already had nine points on his driving record, and this new offense risked an automatic ban.
Hamilton asked to keep his license, explaining this would avoid hardship and could negatively impact other people if he became disqualified from driving. His job requires lots of travel, and he visits clients from Newcastle to South Wales.
He argued that public transport would not work well for his extensive travel needs. Hamilton said a ban would mean a job search, as well as making it difficult to drive his two kids to school and their after-school activities.
The Magistrates agreed with Hamilton that a driving ban would cause hardship. So, they added three points to his record, bringing his total to 12 points, but issued no ban.
The court warned Hamilton that he cannot use the same hardship reasons again if he returns to court soon. People rely on his ability to drive, so he must drive carefully going forward.
Hamilton received a £204 fine. He also has to pay an £82 victim surcharge and £110 in court costs.