Crash driver was almost SIX times over the alcohol limit and could barely stand, say police

A drunk driver involved in a New Year’s crash was nearly six times over the limit, North Yorkshire Police revealed today.

He was so drunk he could barely stand – and it was only luck that prevented a far more serious outcome, officers said.

Police were called out to a two-vehicle collision in Kirkby Malzeard around 9.30pm on New Year’s Eve and saw that one of the drivers was under the influence of alcohol.

The arresting officer said: “When the man was breathalysed, his sample contained a staggering 208ug of alcohol per 100ml of breath – that’s almost six times over the legal limit of 35ug.

“He appeared so intoxicated he could barely speak, never mind drive a vehicle, and had to be physically held up as he was unable to stand by himself.

“The man was arrested and upon arriving in police custody he provided a further positive evidential sample of breath before being charged for drink driving.“

The collision was minor with no injuries “but this has clearly been a very lucky escape for everyone involved”, the officer said.

“Despite the clear dangers of drink driving there are still individuals who continue to do so. Not only do they pose a danger to themselves, but they put the lives of many others at risk too. It is nothing short of stupidity.”

The driver of the vehicle was released on bail and will appear in court this month.

In the first three weeks of their Christmas drink drive campaign, North Yorkshire Police arrested 94 people suspected of drink or drug driving.

This included a van driver pulled over in York who gave a reading of nearly five times over the alcohol limit.

If you see someone driving or about to drive while under the influence, police say you should call 999.