Drunk E-Scooter Rider Jailed After Scaring Southampton Drivers
Paweł Szmydki, 31, from Southampton, was caught red-handed riding a hired e-scooter drunk on the streets. The incident took place on 5 September along Wimpson Lane, where Szmydki drove erratically, forcing other vehicles to swerve to avoid a crash.
More Than Double the Legal Limit
Police stopped Szmydki just after 9.30pm and arrested him after he flunked a roadside breath test. His lowest recorded breath alcohol level was 79mg per 100ml—over twice the UK legal limit of 35mg.
Banned from Driving and Fined
The court hit Szmydki with a 14-month driving ban. He was also slapped with a £300 fine, £85 in court costs, and a £34 victim surcharge.
Clear Message from Police
“We know there is a lot of debate and confusion about e-scooters, but the law is clear,” stated PC David Hazlett from the Road Safety Unit.
“If you use an e-scooter, you cannot drink and drive. You have the same responsibility as if you were driving a car or riding a motorbike.”
“Although the defendant was on a hired scooter, it’s important to remember that privately-owned e-scooters are illegal to use in any public place.”
“Alcohol impairs reactions. Driving any vehicle while drunk risks lives. Our job is to make the roads safer and we will take action against those who pose a danger.”
