An Exeter man caught twice over the drink-drive limit who ran off apologising after crashing his car vowed in court it was his first and last offence.
A 23-year-old man has appeared in court after he hit another car while over the limit and fled the scene, writes Isabelle Pinnock, OPCC court reporting scheme.
Hayatullah Maitar, of Guiness Lane, Exeter pleaded guilty to driving while over the alcohol limit from April 12 this year.
Just after midnight, police received reports of a black Mercedes hitting a Honda. Airbags were deployed and both cars were significantly damaged. The defendant drove off from the scene.
A member of the public called the police and followed the damaged Mercedes along Whipton Barton Road, Exeter. The driver abandoned the vehicle, blocking a junction and saying “I’m sorry, I’m sorry”. He was unsteady on his feet and ran off.
The witness gave a description of the driver, and the registration plate was linked to the defendant. Police attended Maitar’s address and arrested him.
The defendant, who works at a valeting company, was taken to hospital and told officers he had only drank a “few desperados”. He has no previous convictions.
Maitar’s evidential reading was 87 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35 micrograms.
Representing himself, the defendant said: “This is the first time and it will be the last time.”
Maitar was fined £350 and must pay a surcharge of £141 and court costs of £141. He was banned from driving for 21 months.
