A disabled driver who led police on a 120mph car chase has been jailed for dangerous driving and driving without a driving licence.
The court heard that now wheelchair bound Gerald Appleyard, travelled more than 8 miles in under 7 minutes. And this was through residential roads and villages through Teeside.
At the time of the offence, Appleyard also had 3 female passengers in his car, 1 of which was 4 months pregnant.
The incident started when police tried to get Appleyard to pull over as the car he was driving had no MOT.
However, when they indicated for him to stop, Appleyard accelerated away at speed, going through a red light.
The court heard that at one point the chase police car reached 113mph and Applyard’s car reached 120mph.
The chase stopped when Appleyard drove into a wooden fence.
In sentencing, the Judge stated: “You drove at breakneck speed, and your poor attitude to this offending is demonstrated by you telling the probation service hitting the fence was a ‘controlled stop’.
Anyone else using the road at the same time was put in mortal danger, and it is only good fortune no one was killed or seriously injured.
“You had been drinking the night before, and had taken amphetamine to top up your painkillers.
“The courts must take the health of a defendant into account when sentencing, but your problems didn’t prevent you driving as you did.”
Appleyard was sentenced to 8 months custody and banned from driving for 3 years.
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.
