A single mother from Droitwich Spa has been banned from driving for a year after crashing into a HGV lorry while significantly over the legal alcohol limit on Alcester Road. Helen Dickens, 43, pleaded guilty to drink-driving at Birmingham Magistrates' Court and was fined £1,485.
Crash Details
The incident occurred last November when Dickens collided with a HGV lorry on Alcester Road. She suffered a broken arm in the crash, but no other injuries were reported. A blood test revealed she had 122mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, well above the legal limit of 80mg.
Court Proceedings
At Birmingham Magistrates' Court, Dickens' solicitor described her as "mortified" by her actions, calling it a "foolish decision that she deeply regrets." The court heard that Dickens works as head of change and development in public services, a role that requires access to major government facilities. Her conviction may put her job at risk.
Impact on Family
The driving ban will have a significant impact on her children, aged 13 and 10. Dickens now faces a 40-minute walk for the school run. Her solicitor argued that the children's lives will be made "somewhat more difficult" by the disqualification.
Driving Ban and Course
Dickens, who had no previous convictions and a clean driving licence, received a 12-month driving ban. She can reduce this to nine months if she completes a drink-drive course.
