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A van driver under the influence of drugs caused a catastrophic collision in Brighton that resulted in a motorcyclist losing his leg. James Pateman, the driver responsible for the crash, has been sentenced to ten months in prison for his actions, highlighting the severe consequences of drug driving.
The collision occurred when Pateman, engaged in a careless manoeuvre on Howard Terrace turning into New England Road, failed to notice an oncoming motorcyclist. The motorcyclist, who had no time to react, sustained serious injuries, leading to the amputation of his leg above the knee after enduring four surgical procedures.
Pateman, a 38-year-old former engineering technician, admitted to causing serious injury by careless driving and drug driving. Investigations revealed that he was significantly over the limit for cocaine and also had traces of cannabis in his system at the time of the accident.
This tragic event underscores the grave dangers of drug driving, a leading cause of serious and fatal accidents on the roads. Sussex Police have shared details of this case to emphasize the risks and promote road safety awareness.
At Lewes Crown Court, the gravity of Pateman’s reckless behaviour was laid bare. The court heard how the victim’s life had been irrevocably changed, detailing the profound impact of the collision on his physical and emotional well-being.
Sergeant Ian Richardson from the Roads Policing Unit commented on the case, stating, “This incident has demonstrated the life-changing consequences of drug driving. Pateman’s failure to observe oncoming traffic not only resulted in severe physical harm to the victim but also showed a blatant disregard for the safety of others on the road.”
In addition to his prison sentence, Pateman has been disqualified from driving for over three years.
