The Hidden Dangers of the NIP Process: How Innocent People Can Face Huge Fines for Traffic Offences They Didn’t Commit
In an increasingly digital world, we expect records to be precise and communication to be swift. However, I recently received an £810 fine for a speeding offence that allegedly occurred six years ago, highlighting the significant vulnerabilities in the Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) process. This process, a cornerstone of traffic law enforcement, can expose innocent individuals to legal and financial trouble. While designed to ensure that speeding offences and other traffic violations are addressed promptly, it can be manipulated by malicious ex-partners or rogue individuals, leaving unsuspecting victims to deal with severe consequences.
Understanding the NIP Process
The NIP process is intended to promptly inform the registered keeper of a vehicle about an offence and to identify the driver at the time. Here’s how the process works and how it can escalate to significant fines:
- Issuance of NIP: Upon a traffic violation being recorded, such as speeding, the registered keeper of the vehicle receives a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP). This notice must be returned within 28 days, nominating the driver if it was not the registered keeper themselves.
