A Bridlington man has been sentenced at York Crown Court after a drink driving collision that led to the death of his passenger.
The court heard that the 46-year-old was out with his friend on the evening of 15 September last year when he decided to drive them both back to his home in his van.
He lost control of the vehicle shortly after 11pm, leaving the road and hitting a tree. The defendant’s passenger suffered serious injuries in the accident but rather than contacting emergency services he instead went to sleep in the back of his van.
When emergency services arrived the next morning after the van was discovered, the passenger was pronounced dead at the scene while the driver was taken to hospital.
Subsequent analysis found him to have 268mg alcohol per 100ml blood – more than three times the legal drink driving limit.
Police Inspector Mick Roffe, Head of Yorkshire Roads Policing Commented: “The consequences of [the defendant’s actions cannot be underestimated. His decision to get behind the wheel of his van and drive that night resulted in the tragic loss of [his friend]’s life, the impact of which will be felt by [his] family and friends forever.
“I hope [the defendant]’s sentence sends a strong and clear message to anyone thinking about getting behind the wheel after drinking. Doing so is a selfish and thoughtless act which carries severe and lasting consequences.”
Traffic Sergeant Adam Elliott from North Yorkshire Police’s Major Collision Investigation Team said: “[The defendant]’s total disregard for the safety of his friend and other road users is inexcusable but the fact that following the collision he simply went to sleep instead of calling for help is even more despicable.
“The Judge in court commented that [his] driving record of several previous convictions for drink driving offences showed ‘an air of inevitability’ and that he had failed to learn from his past actions which should be a warning to other repeat offenders.
“[This] sentence reflects the severity of his actions and I hope will bring some small comfort to [his victim]’s family.”
After pleading guilty to drink driving and causing death by careless driving, the man was sentenced to eight years and seven months in jail.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
