Drink-Driver Jailed After Horrific Crash in Brighton Leaves Student Fighting for Life
Jaguar Smashes Bus Shelter, Student Severely Injured
Emma Roberts, 43, from Reigate, lost control of her black Jaguar on the A270 Lewes Road in Brighton on September 6, 2023. She smashed through a bus shelter and slammed into a university student waiting at the stop. The man, in his 20s, suffered a fractured skull, brain bleed, broken spine, and multiple internal injuries. He was placed in a coma and has undergone numerous surgeries since.
More Than Triple the Legal Drink-Drive Limit
A breath test revealed Roberts blew 121 microgrammes of alcohol per 100ml of breath—over three times the legal limit of 35. Adding to the horror, she was caught speeding at 74mph in a 30mph zone just moments before the crash.
Jailed for Dangerous Driving
At Lewes Crown Court on October 10, Roberts pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving. She was slammed with a prison sentence of two years and four months, plus a driving ban lasting three years and two months.
Police Warn: Reckless Driving Can Kill
“This again demonstrates the dangers of drink-driving. Roberts was incredibly fortunate that her reckless behaviour did not cause a fatality that night. She risked her own safety as well as the safety of the public. We are pleased that a dangerous driver has been taken off our roads. We are determined to catch dangerous drivers, and this case should act as a warning to others about the dangers of drink driving and driving at excessive speed.” – Officer Jade Smith
The victim told the court he had no chance to react as Roberts’ vehicle swerved into him. He described waking up in hospital in “constant agony” and facing a tough journey to recovery.
Passers-by rushed to help the victim while emergency crews arrived. Witnesses said Roberts appeared intoxicated at the roadside.
This horrific crash is a grim reminder that drink-driving and speeding remain deadly threats on UK roads. Reckless behaviour like this can change lives forever.
