Wall-smash drink driver's 18-month ban - The Worcester Observer

Wall-smash drink driver's 18-month ban

Worcester Editorial 3rd Feb, 2016 Updated: 19th Oct, 2016   0

A DRINK driver who crashed into a garden wall on Christmas morning and drove off has walked away from court with an 18-month ban and a fine.

Simon Beckley, of Ryeland Close, pleaded guilty at Worcester Magistrates Court on Friday (January 29) to driving a motor vehicle when above the legal limit and failing to stop after a road accident.

Jackie Rogers, prosecuting, told the court police came across a Renault Clio on Newland Road in Droitwich at 4am on Christmas morning, which had significant damage to the front and side.

The vehicle was stopped and they spoke to the driver and passenger, who appeared to be hurt from what turned out to be from a traffic collision.




The 22-year-old driver took a roadside breath test which resulted in 68 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath (the limit being 35).

Beckley explained he had been out with friends and decided to drop them off at their houses.


He was driving up the country road when he swerved and crashed into a garden wall. The airbag deployed and the passenger received an injury to his ribs and was vomiting.

They then got back into the car with the intention of flagging down another vehicle for help, the court heard.

Barry Newton, defending, said: “It is an unfortunate set of circumstances and he is very regretful of what happened.

“The location of the accident was on the outskirts road of Pulley Lane which leads on to the A49. It was dark and they drove away to seek help.

“Beckley’s family express great faith in him and give him good testimonials. His actions after the accident are commendable and the garden wall has been dealt with through insurance.”

Beckley’s guilty plea was taken into account for failing to stop after a road accident.

For driving a motor vehicle when above the limit, he was handed an 18 month driving ban and fined £305. He was also ordered to pay £135 court costs and a £31 victim surcharge.

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