Paralysed after I took lift from drink-driver
Niki reveals how a ‘small decision’ had a ‘devastating’ impact on life
A WOMAN left paralysed after she accepted a lift home from a motorist who had been boozing has spoken out about the “devastating consequences” of drink-driving.
Niki Smith, 48, from Aberdeenshire, said that “small decision” in 1997 had changed her life irreversibly.
The car she was in was involved in a crash, leaving her needing a wheelchair.
Meanwhile, her sister, with whom she had been enjoying a night out, broke her collarbone in the incident, and later went on to be diagnosed with PTSD.
Niki warned of the “devastating consequences drink-driving can have on so many lives”, as Police Scotland launched their annual festive crackdown on motorists who get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or taking drugs.
More than 20,000 drivers are stopped by police in Scotland every month and, over the festive period, the force said it will have an “even stronger focus on drink-driving on Scotland’s roads”.
Niki said: “We accepted a lift from someone we knew, although we had no idea he’d been drinking. It was a small decision that changed my life irreversibly.
“My sister broke her collarbone and was later diagnosed with PTSD. I’m glad it was me, as I would have struggled to accept her having my injury.”
Since the crash, she said she and her family had endured “years of stress, physical pain and frustration” but added: “I’ve had to become a more confident person, so people see me and not just the wheelchair.”
In the last two months, Police Scotland said 395 motorists have tested positive for drug-driving, with 600 arrested for drink-driving and related offences.
Chief Superintendent Louise Blakelock, head of road policing, said: “As we approach the festive season, our officers will be focused on targeting drivers who recklessly put others at risk by driving after consuming alcohol or drugs.
“Please don’t drink or take drugs and drive. Do your part and help keep our roads safe this festive season.”
Transport Minister Graeme Dey added: “The consequences of drink and drugdriving can be devastating and those found guilty of breaking the law could face a criminal record, a large fine, and up to six months in prison.”