Crash driver was almost four times the limit

John Kelly, 65, from Sperrin View in the town, was followed by the driver of the other car involved in the collision, and was subsequently spoken to by police.

A sample of breath provided by him showed Kelly’s alcohol level to be 119mg, 84mg over the limit.

Kelly, who appeared in court, pleaded guilty to charges of driving with excess alcohol; driving without due care and attention; failing to stop; using a vehicle without insurance; breaching bail; and failing to answer bail.

A prosecuting lawyer explained police were tasked to the Orritor Road on January 14 in relation to a complaint that a road traffic collision had occurred.

The driver of the second car reported that she had been waiting to turn right, when Kelly moved from the left hand lane and collided with her.

Kelly then drove away without providing any details, but was followed by the other driver and eventually identified to police.

During an interview with police, Kelly claimed he could not recall the accident, adding that he didn’t drive and did not have insurance.

Defending, Jarlath Faloon, solicitor, explained that, on this occasion, Kelly’s wife had a broken leg and he had driven her to the supermarket after drinking alcohol at home.

Mr Faloon said his client currently has no access to any vehicle, and had since split up from his wife.

The case was adjourned until December 5 for the preparation of pre-sentence reports by the Probation Service.