Callous Driver Slams Brakes Twice, Leaves Cyclist Seriously Injured
Michael Anthony Evers dangerously slammed on his brakes twice after overtaking a cyclist at a mini roundabout in Parkside, Darlington last April. The sudden stops forced the victim to crash into the back of Evers’ VW Golf and fall into the road.
Hit and Run Horror: Cyclist Left Injured
The 48-year-old then fled the scene, leaving the injured cyclist lying on the road. Luckily, a passing driver stopped to help, and the cyclist was rushed to hospital with serious injuries.
Helmet Cam Footage Nails Evers
Thanks to footage from the victim’s helmet camera, police tracked down Evers on Middleton Street, Darlington. Initially denying he was the driver, he confessed when confronted with the video evidence.
Jailed for 21 Months and Driving Ban
At Teesside Crown Court on April 11, Recorder Anthony Kelbrick branded Evers “callous” and a danger to road users. He was jailed for 21 months and handed a two-year driving ban after release.
Evers pleaded guilty to:
- Driving while disqualified
- Causing actual bodily harm
- Dangerous driving
- Driving uninsured
- Failing to stop after a collision
- Failing to report a collision
Police Crackdown on Dangerous Driving
“This manner of driving can only be described as incredibly dangerous,” said PC Ryan Tiplady, who led the probe. “Evers showed no regard for the safety of others, leaving the victim with life-altering injuries.”
“Offenders in Darlington and County Durham will face the full force of the law,” he added, thanking witnesses and the victim for their cooperation.
The case supports the National Police Chiefs’ Council ‘2 Wheels’ campaign aiming to boost safety awareness for both drivers and riders on UK roads.
