A Surrey man who killed two pensioners while speeding and drink driving has been jailed for eight-and-a-half years.
The man had been driving near Chichester when he crashed into the back of a Renault, with two of its passengers pronounced dead at the scene. Another passenger in the Renault, as well as its driver, received minor injuries.
Following the incident, in which the drink driver also sustained serious injuries, blood tests found him to have 97mg alcohol per 100ml blood. The legal drink driving limit is 80mg.
Surrey police found on investigation that at the time of impact, the driver had been travelling in excess of 70mph, with witnesses saying he had overtaken them at excess speed, and at the last second.
During his interview, the 29-year-old said “no comment” to each question, however, the force’s investigation found him to have consumed at least five pints of lager prior to the accident.
He appeared at Portsmouth Crown Court on April 28 to face charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and two counts of causing death by dangerous driving.
His Honour Judge Mousley QC said the defendant’s ability to drive was “grossly impaired” and it was his “prolonged and persistent dangerous driving” that caused the accident.
After pleading guilty to the charges, Judge Mousley sentenced the man to eight-and-a-half years in prison – of which he must serve half – as well as banning him from the roads for six-and-a-half years.
Addressing the man, the judge remarked: “Two people lost their lives. Others could have done. The husbands of Anne and Gillian have to live with the horrific memory of the collision in which their deeply-loved wives died.
“Your criminal actions have had far-reaching consequences for their families and so many people who knew them. Anne and Gillian had touched the lives of many others. They met through charity work. They were devoted to their husbands and loved by their families – children and grandchildren especially.”
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.
