Three-year ban for drink driver following Elgin High Street collision
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A farmhand who pranged his car on Elgin High Street has been banned from the roads for three years.
Having arrived back from work during the evening of February 17, Dariusz Stec drove off shortly afterwards in search of food.
However, it was stated at Elgin Sheriff Court, the 43-year-old had already consumed a significant amount of alcohol in the meantime.
The police responded to reports of a single-vehicle collision in the town centre at 6.35pm.
Fiscal depute Shay Treanor said: "When officers arrived they saw the accused was the only occupant in the vehicle."
After failing a roadside breath test, Stec was taken to Elgin police station where he underwent the official test.
This provided a reading of 82 – approaching four times the legal limit of 22.
The court heard that Stec, of Maple Walk, Elgin, had already served a previous driving ban because of alcohol.
Defence solicitor Matthew O'Neill stated his client currently worked as a tractor driver.
He added: "Clearly that won't be something that's open to him for a considerable period, although his employer has indicated a willingness to alter the terms of his job."
Mr O'Neill added: "He's a hard-working individual who's always been in employment."
Stec, who had a Polish translator assisting him in court, admitted a charge of drink driving.
He received a three-year ban, which is the minimum period for a second offence.
In addition he was also ordered to pay a £1200 fine.
