A drink-driver who killed a man, just 5 days before Christmas, was found to be 3 times over the drink driving limit, a Court has heard.
The drunk driver, Stephen James, had caused a 5 car pileup in which the victim, 60-year-old Keith Howlett, was caught.
Peterborough Crown Court heard how alcoholic James had been on his way to work as an oil tanker driver when he tried to overtake a lorry just before 6 am.
However, during the manoeuvre, James’ car struck the central reservation and he collided head-on with a van travelling in the opposite direction. The driver of the van also suffered life-changing injuries.
James’ driving also caused the lorry he was overtaking to swerve into the other carriageway, striking Mr Howlett’s car. Mr Howlett suffered fatal injuries and tragically died at the scene.
James failed a breathalyser test at the scene and a back calculation gave his reading, at the time of the accident, to be 245mcg of alcohol in 100ml of blood. The current legal limit in England and Wales is 80mcg.
In sentencing, the Judge told James: “No-one should leave this court thinking the sentence I pass is the value placed on the deceased’s life.
“Rules regarding road safety are not to tie people down. They are there for the safety of the driver and others.”
Forensic Collision Investigator PC James Thorne said: “James robbed a family and friends of Keith just five days before Christmas after knowingly consuming a vast quantity of alcohol the night before he was due to start work at 6 am.
“Running late and compounded due to his deplorable level of intoxication he made the decision to overtake a lorry in a place which was wholly inappropriate.
“We welcome the sentence today and hope it serves as a stark reminder and deterrent to those who drink and drive. If in doubt, don’t drink or don’t drive, the consequences can be fatal and far more devastating than you might think.”
James was sentenced to 6 years in prison and banned from driving for 10 years. He was also ordered to undertake an extended re-test before driving again.
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.
