A Taunton man has been banned from driving for nearly three years after being caught driving drunkenly the wrong way down the A38 dual carriageway near Walford Cross.
Francis Siyachitema, 50, was spotted by a patrolling Avon and Somerset police officer on the evening of Monday, May 4, navigating his Toyota Yaris on the wrong side of the high-speed road. Other drivers were forced to take evasive action to avoid a collision.
Police stopped Siyachitema and immediately noticed signs of intoxication: a strong smell of alcohol, unsteady movement, slurred speech, and confusion. Tests revealed he was more than four times over the legal alcohol limit.
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Siyachitema pleaded guilty to driving over the prescribed alcohol limit and was sentenced at Taunton Magistrates' Court on June 8. He received a 32-month driving ban, was ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid work, and must pay £85 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge.
PC Nick Steele, who attended the scene, stated, “Siyachitema’s driving posed a serious and immediate danger to others. It was incredibly fortunate no one was hurt. This occurred during hours of darkness on a poorly lit section of road, and the outcome could have been devastating. Only by chance was the officer present to intervene.
“This case highlights the severe risks associated with drink driving. Our commitment to preventing drink and drug driving remains strong through targeted patrols and enforcement to protect all road users.”