Perth driver four times over the limit

Dec 11 2009

MOTORISTS flashed their headlights and had to take evasive action after a car veered towards them on Perth Bridge, writes Les Stewart.

Shortly before, another driver was so concerned that 32-year-old Christopher Collins would smash into the back of his car that he pulled in to let him pass.

The same driver followed Collins to his home in Perth Road, Scone, and identified him to police who had been alerted.

Collins failed the breathalyser and subsequent tests showed he had been driving with more than four times the alcohol limit.

He was disqualified for two years and also put on probation for 18 months at Perth Sheriff Court this week.

Conditions of his supervision are that he attend the Perth Drink/Driving Project and undertake alcohol counselling.

He pleaded guilty to driving on roads in Perth and Scone with 144mics. of alcohol. The legal limit is 35.

Depute fiscal Charmaine Cole said that a motorist became aware of the accused’s car behind him at 5.30pm on a Sunday evening.

The accused followed him into Barrack Street, Atholl Street, Charlotte Street and Perth Bridge.

“Due to the erratic nature of the driving, the witness pulled over to let the accused’s vehicle pass.”

Oncoming vehicles were so concerned at the driving that they alerted the police.

Solicitor Billy Somerville said that the accused had been struggling financially but was now back at work and paying off his bills.

He had been consuming alcohol to excess and would benefit from further assistance.

Sheriff Michael Fletcher said: “Background reports indicate that probation is the most appropriate way of dealing with this.”