Bristol private hire driver BANNED after court rejects ‘Swedish driver’ claim in speeding case
- Perry Richardson
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
A private hire vehicle driver in Bristol has been disqualified and fined after a court dismissed his claim that a visiting driver from Sweden was responsible for a series of speeding offences.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that the 38-year-old licence holder was found guilty at Bath Magistrates’ Court on 2 April 2026 of three counts of failing to provide the name and address of a driver. The charges related to incidents on 10 October, 13 November and 18 November 2024, when the same vehicle was detected speeding in Bristol.
PC Patrick Quinton, known within the force as a dedicated taxi enforcement officer, said the explanation provided by the driver did not stand up to scrutiny. “On the 10/10/24, 13/11/24 and 18/11/24 a PHV was detected speeding in Bristol. The licence holder stated a male from Sweden was driving at the time of the offences,” he said.
“We didn’t believe that, and or did the Court. On the 2/4/26 Bath Magistrates found the 38 year old man from Bristol guilty of three counts of Failing to provide name and address of driver and was disqualified for 6 months with £1,182 fines and costs.”
Driver fined and disqualified after failing to identify who was behind the wheel during multiple offences
The case highlights ongoing enforcement activity targeting licensed drivers who fail to comply with legal obligations around traffic offences. Under UK law, registered keepers of vehicles must provide accurate driver details when requested by authorities, with failure to do so carrying penalties including fines, points and disqualification.
PC Quinton confirmed the matter has now been escalated for potential licensing action, which could impact the individual’s ability to continue operating as a private hire driver. “I have referred the case to the Licensing Team to decide what action they wish to take,” he added.
PC Quinton issued a direct warning to drivers regarding honesty in dealing with enforcement processes. “As I often remind drivers - DON’T LIE ON YOUR TRAFFIC TICKETS!”
