Provisional Driver Banned for Four Years After M4 Crash
Michael Ellul, 34, from Newport, has been disqualified from driving for four years following a shocking crash on the M4. Swindon Magistrates’ Court handed down the ban on December 14, alongside a £500 fine, a £400 victim surcharge, and £85 in court costs.
Crash on M4 Involved Drink-Driving and Mobile Phone Use
In the early hours of September 27, Ellul was driving westbound on the M4 between junctions 16 and 17 when he crashed into a heavy goods vehicle. At just 3am, while holding only a provisional licence, he admitted to using his mobile phone behind the wheel. Police breath tests then revealed he had 58 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath – over the legal limit.
Thankfully, no one was hurt in the collision.
Police Warn Against Dangerous Driving This Festive Season
PC James Barrett from the Roads Policing Unit said: “Ellul risked both his and other drivers’ lives through his actions and it is incredibly fortunate that there were no injuries. There is never any excuse for either drink-driving or using a mobile phone while driving.
“If you have been drinking, always arrange another way to make your journey – it doesn’t matter how well you know the roads, it’s not worth the risk.”
Wiltshire Police are cracking down on drink and drug drivers this festive period. The Roads Policing Unit is ramping up patrols and teaming up with the Road Safety Partnership to catch offenders. Officers will also host community events in town centres, educating the public on the dangers of drink and drug driving.
For more details, visit Wiltshire Police: Operation Targeting Drink and Drug Drivers Over the Festive Period.
