Horsham drug-driver avoids jail after seriously injuring pedestrian
She was found to be more than ten times the legal limit
Last updated 21st Jul 2021
A Horsham woman who crashed her 4x4 into a pedestrian while more than ten times the drug-driving limit has avoided jail.
Amy Godfrey left the man pinned against another vehicle following the collision just metres from her home in Canberra Place at around 6.55am on May 26th, 2020.
The 36-year-old, who is unemployed, then continued to drive and park her vehicle, before entering her home without checking on the victim.
The pedestrian – a 28-year-old local man – sustained injuries including a broken arm and fractured pelvis, and was taken to hospital for treatment, where he remained for several days.
Police attended the scene and Godfrey was arrested at her address.
She failed a DrugWipe test which showed she had 518mcg benzoylecgonine – the main metabolite of cocaine – per litre of blood in her system. The legal limit is 50mcg.
She was subsequently arrested, and charged with drug-driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. She initially denied the offences, but pleaded guilty just before the case was due to go to trial.
At Lewes Crown Court on July 8th, Godfrey was sentenced to a total of 18 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months.
She was also disqualified from driving for two years and must take an extended re-test if she wishes to drive again.
Investigating officer, PC Steve Bucksey, of the Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said:
“This incident demonstrates the serious consequences of drug-driving.
“Godfrey was more than 10 times the legal limit and continued driving despite knowing she had hit someone.
“The serious injuries sustained by the victim has prevented him from working and has meant he has been unable to provide for his family.”