A Leyland driver involved in a fatal crash with a motorcyclist has been cleared of a separate drink driving offence - because he was too stressed to be able to provide a sample.
Craig Ianson, 21, of Lynton Avenue, Leyland admitted driving without due care and attention in the crash which killed dad-of-one David Hamilton of Mendip Road in May 2007.
Hamilton's family have spoken out over their dismay at the recent verdict.
In September 2008, just months after returning to the road, having had his 18-month ban slashed on appeal, he was pulled over by police on Golden Hill Lane.
He was described in court as being 'unsteady on his feet, smelling of intoxicants and slurring his words' by officers and tested almost twice the legal breath limit - but it was on a device which is not legally admissable as evidence.
When Ianson was then arrested and taken to Leyland Police Station, he was unable to provide a further sample and was charged with failing to provide a specimen.
At a trial South Ribble Magistrates' Court on Monday, Ianson gave evidence that the 'stress and anxiety' he suffers as a result of the fatal smash at Bent Lane two years ago, left him unable to blow into the intoximeter machine.
Magistrates agreed that he had a 'reasonable excuse' on medical grounds and found him not guilty.
- For the full story and reaction see this week's Leyland Guardian - out now
