Motorist Banned After Driving Hours Post-Anaesthetic Crash
Tomasz Zielonka, 32, from Southampton, has been slapped with a 12-month driving ban after crashing his car just hours after a general anaesthetic.
Crash With a Curse
On May 17, Zielonka was behind the wheel of a Ford C-Max on Bassett Avenue when he collided with a Mazda at around 7pm. Luckily, no one was hurt.
Ignored Medical Advice
Earlier that day, Zielonka had surgery requiring a general anaesthetic. Released at 4.45pm, medics warned him not to drive.
Despite that, after grabbing dinner in Portswood with his girlfriend, an argument broke out about who should drive home. Zielonka insisted on taking the wheel.
‘I Felt Dizzy’
In a police interview, Zielonka admitted feeling dizzy and numbness in his feet as he drove, causing the crash. He claimed he wasn’t told not to drive and didn’t read his aftercare leaflets.
Tests confirmed anaesthetic drugs were still in his system.
Justice Served
Southampton Magistrates Court found Zielonka guilty of driving while unfit through drugs. He was fined £554, must pay £620 in court costs, and a £55 victim surcharge.
Sgt Rebecca Hodge warned: “Driving after a medical procedure can invalidate your car insurance and is simply not worth the risk.”
“This case reminds everyone that ‘driving unfit’ covers not just illegal substances but also legal and prescribed drugs that impair your ability.”
