Uninsured Driver Banned After 149mph M5 Speeding Incident
A 25-year-old uninsured driver has been banned from driving for one year after being caught speeding at nearly 150mph on the M5 motorway in Somerset. Paiwand Siamand avoided immediate imprisonment but received a suspended prison sentence and community service for his reckless actions.
High-Speed Motorway Chase
Paiwand Siamand was driving a gold Volkswagen Golf R when he was spotted travelling at more than double the speed limit on the evening of November 8, 2025. The incident occurred between junction 24 for Bridgwater and junction 25 at Blackbrook Interchange on the M5.
An on-duty police officer, Pc Nick Steele, was conducting a speed check in an unmarked police car when Siamand passed him in lane three. Pc Steele followed the Golf and recorded speeds of up to 149mph on a damp, unlit section of the motorway with moderate traffic present.
Extreme Danger to Road Users
Avon and Somerset Police stated that the driving conditions posed an extreme risk. Pc Steele expressed concern about the potential for a serious crash, noting that at such high speeds, the vehicle would travel over 100 metres before the driver could react to a hazard.
"Driving at 149mph on a damp, unlit motorway with moderate traffic presents an extreme danger to all road users," said Pc Steele. "Wet conditions significantly increase braking distances while poor lighting reduces visibility and situational awareness. The presence of moderate traffic heightens collision risk, and it was fortunate nobody was significantly harmed during the incident."
Legal Consequences and Sentencing
After activating his emergency lights, Pc Steele followed the Golf off the motorway at junction 25 in Taunton. Siamand, of Doncaster Road, Bristol, later admitted to dangerous driving, using a vehicle without insurance, and driving otherwise in accordance with a licence.
At Bristol Magistrates' Court last week, Siamand was handed a 36-week prison sentence, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work, received a 12-month driving ban, and must pay £272 in costs.
This case highlights the severe legal repercussions for dangerous driving on UK motorways, emphasising the importance of adhering to speed limits and maintaining proper vehicle insurance.
