AN AFTERNOON drinking with a flat neighbour did not go to plan for a Mount Gambier resident.
The 21-year-old appeared in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court on Tuesday after recording an excess blood alcohol limit of 0.104.
On June 7 at 5.30pm, the defendant allegedly drove his neighbour’s car and crashed into a nearby vehicle.
The prosecutor said the defendant stated he drank around two-and-a-half drinks of spirits and cola.
The defendant’s lawyer said the incident occurred on the driveway which runs parallel to a single row of units, frequently used by residents and visitors.
“The defendant only drove on the driveway,” the defence said.
“The incident happened on private property.”
The defendant’s lawyer said his client was normally a shy person but alcohol made him confident.
“The defendant has indicated he knew he should not have been driving,” the lawyer said.
“He is expecting a baby in April with his partner who he has been with for three years.
“It is unlikely the defendant will reoccur in any similar way.”
Magistrate Jack Fahey said although he took into consideration the incident happened on private property, the defendant was still not capable of driving.
He was sentenced with a six-month disqualified license and the minimum fine of $900.
Magistrate Fahey said he considered the penalty significant as the man was currently unemployed.
