A heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver was observed 'swaying' between lanes on the M6 motorway after consuming vodka during a break, a court has heard. Members of the public alerted the police after noticing the erratic driving of the lorry, which appeared to be out of control.
Incident Details
Polish national Gocalek Syman, aged 33, was pulled over by officers and found to be three times the legal alcohol limit. He had 107 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, far exceeding the legal limit of 35 micrograms. The incident occurred on Sunday, April 26, just after midnight.
Prosecutor Kyle Padley, speaking at North Staffordshire Justice Centre, stated: 'Members of the public called the police after spotting a lorry swaying between lanes in a manner which appeared uncontrolled. Officers pulled him over and performed a breathalyser test. He failed the test and was taken into custody.'
Defendant's Background
Syman, who does not have a British address, admitted to drink-driving. Simon Dykes, defending, explained that Syman was an experienced HGV driver with 15 years of experience and no previous convictions in either England or Poland. Mr Dykes said: 'On this occasion, he drank while on an 11-hour break. He consumed vodka but he may have had more than he realised. He accepts he was very foolish to get behind the wheel, especially when driving that kind of large vehicle.'
Mr Dykes added that Syman has had a difficult time in custody in a foreign country where he does not speak the language. 'He is keen to go home where his family are waiting for him. He is remorseful and understands he must face a driving ban in this country going forward.'
Court Outcome
Magistrates imposed a 28-month driving ban and a fine of £891. The bench told Syman: 'We are frustrated by the difficulties we have facing this sentencing. We will be imposing a driving ban. If you drive in the United Kingdom while disqualified, you will be committing a serious crime. We will also be giving you a fine because we cannot give you a community order when you live in a different country.'
