R v Lawrence

[1981] 1 All ER 974

---

(Decision by: Lord Fraser of Tullybelton)

Between: R
And: Lawrence

Court:

Judges: Lord Hailsham of St Marylebone LC
Lord Diplock

Lord Fraser of TullybeltonLord Roskill
Lord Bridge of Harwich

Subject References:
criminal
Criminal Law
Road Traffic
Road traffic
Reckless driving
Causing death by reckless driving
Reckless
Mens rea
Mental element required
Proper direction to be given to jury

Legislative References:
Road Traffic Act 1972 - ss 1, 2 (as substituted by the Criminal Law Act 1977, s 50(1))

Case References:
Allan v Patterson - [1980] SLT 77; [1980] RTR 97
R v Caldwell - p 961, ante, HL
R v Evans - [1962] 3 All ER 1086; [1963] 1 QB 412; [1962] 3 WLR 1457; 127 JP 49; 61 LGR 32; 47 Cr App R 62, CCA; 45 Digest (Repl) 87, 298
R v Murphy (William) - [1980] 2 All ER 325; [1980] QB 434; [1980] 2 WLR 743; [1980] RTR 145, CA
R v Sheppard - [1980] 3 All ER 899; [1980] 3 WLR 960, HL
R v Stephenson - [1979] 2 All ER 1198; [1979] QB 695; [1979] 3 WLR 193; 143 JP 592; 69 Cr App R 213, CA; Digest (Cont Vol E) 161, 12,692a

Hearing date: 5, 9 February 1981
Judgment date: 19 March 1981

---

Decision by:
Lord Fraser of Tullybelton

My Lords, I have had the advantage of reading in draft the speeches of my noble and learned friends Lord Hailsham LC and Lord Diplock, and I agree with them. I would dismiss this appeal.