Published: Tuesday, 3rd November, 2009 3:52pm

Dangerous driver disqualified following smash

by Ally McGilvray

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A MOTORIST who offered a man money and then drove him home after knocking him down on a pedestrian crossing in Galashiels has been fined a total of £470, disqualified from driving for two years and ordered to resit his test.

Darren Brown, 29, of Bannerfield Drive, Selkirk, admitted driving dangerously when he appeared at Selkirk Sheriff Court on Monday - despite pleas from his passenger to slow down.

He drove at excessive speed, failed to stop at a pedestrian crossing, and collided with a pedestrian to his injury in the High Street, Galashiels, shortly after midnight on March 8.

Brown's solicitor Greg McDonnel said: "To be fair it was dark and he did not see him." But he added: "It is clear that drugs are to blame for his behaviour."

The court heard that the casualty, who was catapulted onto the bonnet and smashed his head on the windscreen, escaped serious injury.

However, Brown was not tracked down by police until three months after the incident.

The self-confessed cannabis user also admitted driving while unfit through drink or drugs and possession of amphetamine - a Class B drug - in Hawthorn Road, Galashiels on June 20.

Procurator fiscal Morag McClintock said: "The police spotted the accused enter his vehicle and drive off at speed. Several manouveres caused them concern and they stopped him.

"His speech was slurred, he mumbled responses and he swayed from side to side as he exited the vehicle."

But she added: "When officers found the amphetamine in the back of the car, the accused indicated it was sherbert."

Mr McDonnel revealed traces of Diazepam were found in his client's blood.

Sheriff Kevin Drummond warned the accused he faced jail. He said: "It is clear that your driving and drug use is a combination which is a danger to the public."

But, as an alternative to custody, in addition to the fine and ban, Brown was ordered to carry out 140 hours of community service.