A 27-year-old BMW driver has been handed a motoring ban after he crashed while driving under the influence of alcohol on the A442 near Bridgnorth. The incident occurred on the evening of 15 January, when the driver lost control of his vehicle and collided with a roadside barrier.
Details of the Incident
The driver, identified as Jack Thompson from Kidderminster, was found to be nearly three times the legal alcohol limit when he was tested at the scene. He had been driving a black BMW 3 Series when he crashed on the A442 near the junction with the B4363. Fortunately, no other vehicles were involved, and Thompson sustained only minor injuries.
Police were called to the scene at around 10:30 PM after receiving reports of a single-vehicle collision. Upon arrival, officers noticed Thompson smelled of alcohol and conducted a breathalyzer test. The result showed 103 micrograms of alcohol per 100 milliliters of breath, significantly above the legal limit of 35 micrograms.
Court Proceedings
Thompson appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court on 31 January, where he pleaded guilty to driving while over the prescribed alcohol limit. The court heard that Thompson had been at a friend's house earlier that evening and had consumed several pints of beer before deciding to drive home.
Magistrates imposed a 20-month driving ban and fined Thompson £350. He was also ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £35 victim surcharge. In addition, he must take an extended retest before he can drive again.
Police Warning
Following the hearing, Police Constable Sarah Jones of West Mercia Police said: 'This case highlights the dangers of drink driving. Thompson's actions could have had far more serious consequences. We urge everyone to never drink and drive, as the risks are simply not worth it.'
The police also reminded the public that drink driving remains a major cause of road traffic collisions, with devastating impacts on victims and their families.
