Drug Driver’s Reckless Swerve Leaves Man Seriously Injured Near Chichester
A 37-year-old drug driver caused a horror crash near Chichester, leaving a local man fighting for his life. Charlie Bedworth failed to spot a turning vehicle on the Selsey Road (B2145) near Hunston, sparking a terrifying head-on collision.
High-Speed Swerving and Cocaine Use Behind Crash
Bedworth, who was driving at speed in an Audi Q5, missed a Range Rover indicating a right turn. In a desperate attempt to avoid collision, he swerved directly into the path of an oncoming Kia Picanto. The 53-year-old victim from Selsey was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries and is still undergoing treatment almost a year later.
At the roadside, Bedworth failed a DrugWipe test for cocaine. Subsequent blood tests revealed his cocaine metabolite levels were nearly six times the legal limit. Initially, Bedworth denied taking drugs and suggested his drink might have been spiked, but he later refused to explain the positive tests.
Court Jails Bedworth for Four Years and Bans Driving
On May 10 at Portsmouth Crown Court, the unemployed Brentford man pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving under the influence of drugs. He was sentenced to four years behind bars and banned from driving for five years.
“Bedworth’s driving was appalling and dangerous,” said PC Tom Van Der Wee of the Roads Policing Unit. “He failed to see a vehicle braking and indicating ahead, reacting far too late. He swerved to avoid a collision, but instead caused devastating harm. This case highlights why we are committed to catching drug drivers before they hurt innocent people. Bedworth was incredibly lucky not to cause death or worse that day.”
Warning Over the Deadly Dangers of Drug Driving
Officials remind drivers that drug-driving and distractions behind the wheel remain top causes of serious injury and fatalities on UK roads. The shocking crash near Chichester is yet another grim reminder of the deadly consequences when drivers get behind the wheel under the influence.
- Incident occurred June 10 last year at approx. 7:40am
- Victim still requires ongoing rehabilitation
- Bedworth’s blood cocaine levels were 296ug/L, legal limit is 50ug/L
- Bedworth sentenced to 4 years in prison and 5 years driving ban
