Ricardo Miranda (37) told officers he had drunk a bottle of wine before getting behind the wheel of his Audi A4. He admitted that he may have been driving a ‘bit fast’ – doing 35mph in a 30mph zone.
Advocate Katie Ridley, prosecuting, said the defendant was the only individual involved in the incident – which occurred just before 10pm on 24 February – and that he had sustained no visible injuries.
She added that the defendant had provided a breath alcohol reading of 68mg in 100ml of breath. The legal limit is 35mg.
Advocate Frances Littler, defending, said her client had not submitted any mitigation but she made reference to how he had told officers at the scene that he had been drinking, had been fully compliant and had admitted fault.
She added that he had broken up with his partner that day and had decided to drink alcohol as a result but that this was not an excuse for his actions.
Assistant Magistrate Peter Harris, referring to Miranda’s record, noted that he had a previous
relevant conviction from 2009.
He fined the defendant £3,000 and banned him from driving for 21 months. He must retake his test if he wishes to drive again and will face 12 weeks in prison if he does not pay the fine.
