Simon Wright, 43, of Parklands, Malmesbury, has been banned from driving for two years after a dangerous drink-driving crash. The sentence was handed down by Swindon Crown Court following Wright’s guilty plea to charges of dangerous and drink driving.
In addition to the driving ban, Wright received an 18-month suspended prison term and must complete 200 hours of unpaid work. He is also required to pay £2,000 in compensation and a £187 court surcharge.
The crash occurred at approximately 4:30 pm on March 25, 2023. Wright was driving his Audi RS4 with children and a front passenger on board, travelling from Malmesbury to Little Somerford. Upon exiting Priory roundabout, Wright accelerated, overtook two vehicles, lost control, and skidded into oncoming traffic, colliding with another car.
Emergency services responded quickly to the scene. Wright failed a breath test administered by police. Both Wright and his front passenger sustained injuries, while the children in the car experienced shock but were not physically harmed. Occupants of the other vehicle involved were hospitalised with minor injuries.
Police Constable Luke Hobbs condemned Wright’s actions as “selfish and mindless.” He stated, “Driving under the influence is totally unacceptable and puts everyone at huge risk. The fact there were young children in the car makes it all the more shocking.”
PC Hobbs further added, “Alcohol gives a false sense of confidence. Too often, drivers believe they are invincible after drinking. Thankfully, Wright will no longer be on our roads.”
This ruling aligns with Wiltshire Police’s new summer campaign targeting the Fatal Five driving offences, reinforcing the message that there is “no excuse” for dangerous driving.
Originally published by UKNIP.
