Hapless South Shields driver banned from roads after crashing into car on his own street

Hungover Dillon Robson smashed into the back of Rodney Steel’s Renault Megane in Lemon Street, South Shields, before parking up his mum’s car outside their home further up the road without reporting the shunt.

The 20-year-old was caught out after the early morning smash was witnessed by the owner of the damaged car, who called in police.

The collision ripped the rear bumper of the Renault Megane in half - causing an estimated £1,000 worth of damage - while Robson’s mother’s car was written off due to the damage caused.

Robson - who was insured to drive his mother’s car - is already forking out for a car loan so she can get back on the road.

Robson, of Lemon Street, South Shields, admitted driving with excess alcohol and failing to stop after a road accident at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court.

Glenda Beck, prosecuting, said: “At 7.10am on Sunday, May 29, Mr Steel had his car parked in the street when he saw a Renault Clio crash into the back of his vehicle.

“He saw the car reverse and leave the scene and drive further down Lemon Street.

“He took a note of the registration plate and called police.

“Police arrived and spoke to the defendant who they noted was drunk.”

Robson was arrested and recorded a reading of 63mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath - above the legal limit of 35mcg.

In a victim statement, Mr Steel said he had only been in the street to do some decorating at his son’s house.

He said Robson ‘could have killed someone’ after getting behind the wheel while over the limit.

Mr Steel said: “I have been the innocent victim of a hit and run. If I hadn’t seen the collision I would have had to cover the cost myself.

“I only came to South Shields to decorate my son’s house.

“I am disgusted he was drinking and driving, he could’ve killed someone.”

Joanne Gatens, defending, said: “He has pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.

“He had been out the night before and thought he would be fit to drive in the morning.

“He panicked. He is not a master criminal as he parked his car further up the street.

“He was easily detected.

“It shows the danger and perils of driving after drinking the night before.”

Robson was banned from driving for 18 months and ordered to pay a fine of £200, as well as prosecution costs of £85 and a £20 victim surcharge.