A BOOZED-UP Milton driver who collided with a pedestrian after answering a “panic phone call” has been jailed for one year and banned from driving for 45 months.

A sheriff described 35-year-old Tony Reid’s driving as “shocking” and said it was only by “accident that he didn’t kill” the innocent pedestrian he ploughed into, having been guzzling alcohol before driving.

Reid, of Crannog Court, Milton, Dumbarton, appeared for sentence at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last Wednesday, having prevously admitted driving dangerously on Glasgow Road and hitting a pedestrian.

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Reid committed the offence on December 17, 2017, where he struck Martin Cramb, while driving under the influence of drink. The court heard how Reid failed to keep a proper lookout while driving his car, and collided with Mr Cramb, the pedestrian as he crossed the road.

Reid later refused to provide a breath test to police after being taken to Clydebank police office.

Prosecutor Claire Nicholls said Reid had been driving eastbound on Glasgow Road at the time.

Defence lawyer Brian McGuire told the court: “My client had been at home that evening and had been drinking when he received a panic telephone call.

“The panic came from his son’s girlfriend. He made a substantial mistake. His driving licence is essential for work and he works long hours. He is aware what the outcome will be from the court.

“He has been extremely frank from the outset and of the situation he faces. His employers have offered him counselling and support, which shows how much of a valued employee he is.”

“There are some positives which have to be set in the circumstances of the offence. There is not much more I can add. Mr Reid is aware of his situation. He has recently undergone an unpleasant break-up of a long term relationship. 

“He is aware that custody is inevitable. When he is released he will not be able to go back to the job he was doing as a result of the disqualification.”

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Sheriff William Gallacher told Reid: “Your situation before you came to court was very difficult. Your driving was shocking. You were disjointed from reality and the car you were driving had become a lethal weapon. You struck a pedestrian and the consequences were very significant. 

“It was only by accident that you didn’t kill this innocent pedestrian.” If you had you would have been dealt with by the High Court.

Reid was jailed for a year and banned from holding or obtaining a licence for 45 months.