HGV driver jailed for driving more than three times legal alcohol limit
Avon and Somerset Police say drink and drug driving 'remains a major problem on our roads' in 2024
A drink driver at the wheel of a lorry on the M5 in Somerset has been jailed - after driving at more than three times the legal alcohol limit.
35-year-old Ihar Shynkevich was pulled up by Special Constable Danny Hopkins and Special Constable Kalvin Mackenzie earlier this month (February 5) after concerns from the public over the man driving the 21 tonne vehicle.
People had been calling 999, saying the driver had been controlling the vehicle erratically.
Police dashcam footage shows the lorry, which was carrying cargo, veering between lanes and narrowly avoiding a vehicle joining the northbound carriageway at junction 22.
Shynkevich was arrested at Sedgemoor service station after failing a roadside breath test and was subsequently charged with driving a motor vehicle while over the prescribed alcohol limit.
He appeared in court the next day and was sentenced to 19 weeks imprisonment, in addition to being disqualified from driving for 1163 days.
Roads Policing A/Insp Stephen Whatley said: “Considering the size of Shynkevich’s vehicle, the weight of the load he was carrying and the manner of his driving on a busy stretch of carriageway, there could easily have been a major collision on the M5 that afternoon.
“Fortunately, this was avoided and a dangerous driver has now been taken off the roads thanks to a report from a member of the public.
“Given the seriousness of the circumstances, a custodial sentence is appropriate and welcomed.”
Drink and drug driving 'remains a major problem'
This all comes as Avon and Somerset Police say drink and drug driving 'remains a major problem on our roads' in 2024.
So far this year, 255 people have been arrested for drink driving, and 153 people have been arrested for drug driving across the region.
This total (408) is up on the 324 drivers arrested in the force area during their annual winter operation, targeting drink and drug drivers, which ran throughout December.
Chief Inspector Rob Cheeseman, head of Roads Policing, said: “The arrest data for the first eight weeks of 2024 shows that drink and drug driving remains a major problem on our roads, despite the well known risks.
“It should also dispel the misconception that enforcement activity only goes on during the Christmas period when media attention peaks. To be clear: those who make the reckless choice to drink or drug drive, day or night, should expect to get caught.
“I would like to acknowledge the hard work of our teams – including the Special Constabulary, who volunteer their time – who are all working tirelessly to keep our roads safe.”
Reports of drink/drug drivers can be made online or by calling 101.
Alternatively reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
If someone is currently driving under the influence of drink or drugs, always call 999.