Lorry Driver Busted Nearly Five Times Over Drink-Drive Limit on M23
A lorry driver caught swerving wildly along the M23 while almost five times over the legal alcohol limit has been slammed with a three-month jail sentence. The terrifying early morning drama unfolded south of Crawley on January 11, putting countless lives at risk.
High-Speed Chase Ends in Dangerous Stop
Dainius Juodis, 50, from Worcester Park, Surrey, was caught after refusing to stop for Sussex Police. Officers from the Tactical Firearms Unit spotted his heavy goods vehicle weaving dangerously on the A23 near Pease Pottage. Even with flashing blue lights behind him, Juodis kept driving for nearly four miles before finally pulling over—in a live lane of the busy M23.
His reckless decision forced police to shut down four lanes of traffic just to safely detain him.
Shock Breath Test Reveals Massive Over-Limit Reading
At the scene, a breathalyser revealed Juodis’ staggering alcohol level: 172 microgrammes per 100ml of breath—almost five times the legal limit of 35 microgrammes. Investigations showed he had downed half a bottle of vodka before getting behind the wheel. He also has a troubling history of prior drink-driving convictions.
Swift Court Action: Jail Time and Driving Ban
On January 13, Juodis faced Crawley Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to driving over the legal limit. He was promptly sentenced to three months in prison and slapped with a five-year driving disqualification.
Police Warn: Drink-Driving Remains Deadly
This arrest comes during Sussex Police’s winter campaign Operation Limit, which ran from December 1 to January 1 targeting drink and drug-driving offenders. The force continues to name offenders caught under this initiative to deter others.
“By the manner of his driving, Juodis is incredibly lucky not to have caused serious harm or a fatality on our roads,” warned TFU Inspector Mark Robinson.
Sussex Police are making it clear: drink-driving won’t be tolerated, and those who risk lives will face the full force of the law.
