A drunk driver, who killed a vet whilst driving a hired Maserati sports car, has been jailed for 12 years and banned from driving for 15 years.
The High Court in Glasgow heard how the driver, Thomas Wainwright had been driving at “ridiculously high speeds” after drinking cider and whiskey for 8 hours.
Wainwright had pleaded not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving but was convicted after trial.
It had been the prosecution case that Wainwright had been driving on the wrong side of the road, at speeds up to 95mph when he crashed into Theresa Wade’s van on Mull in October 2015.
During the trial, Wainwright and his passenger Jerome Lopez contested that it was Ms Wade who had been driving on the wrong side of the road and it was she who had caused the accident.
However, traffic experts who had examined the scene did not agree with Wainwright’s version of events.
The Court heard how, at the point of impact, the black box fitted to the car recorded a speed of 69mph.
In his sentencing remarks, Judge Morris stated: “Just prior to leaving your final licensed premises you were spoken to by a concerned member of the public who asked how you were getting home. Your reply was: ‘The car knows its own way home.’
“A remark which is all too indicative of your general attitude to all that transpired.
“Prior to the accident you persistently drove at – quite frankly – ridiculously excessive speeds. To drive at 95.5mph on a dark county road borders on the reckless.
“You have shown no remorse for your actions – quite the contrary – your arrogance in giving evidence and in the social inquiry report is quite staggering.”
The judge added: “In your evidence, you sought to put the blame on Miss Wade knowing full that her family were in the court listening to you.”
Speaking outside Court, Ms Wade’s partner, Charles Pease stated: “Has justice been done? Well, Thomas Wainwright will have 12 years to reflect upon that.
“Me, I should choose to forget Thomas Wainwright.
“I have too many happy recollections of Theresa to let Thomas Wainwright spoil them.”
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.
