SCALES OF JUSTICE Drug-driver clipped lollipop lady with car

A CASTLEMILK man who popped valium before getting behind the wheel and clipping a lollipop lady has been banned from the roads for three years.

At Glasgow Sheriff Court, Kevin McFarland admitted driving a car along Dougrie Drive whilst unfit through drink or drugs on October 24, 2016.

The 47-year-old also pleaded guilty to driving dangerously and failing to maintain a proper lookout when he struck a school cross- ing patrol assistant on the arm in Dougrie Road.

In addition, he collided and mounted a roundabout in Carmunnock Road.

The fiscal depute told the court that the lollipop lady was standing in the middle of the roadway with her pole when McFarland drove up from behind and struck her.

The woman was helped to the pavement, but was initially confused after the accident.

McFarland was tracked down by police and was found to be unsteady on his feet, but provided a negative breath test.

In defence it was claimed that McFarland had been the victim of a serious assault several years ago and was wheelchair bound for a time as he could not walk.

It was explained that he sometimes took too much valium and on the day of the incident he had taken some before getting into the car.

McFarland, of Dougrie Place, was sentenced to a Community Payback Order with supervision for 18 months and a conduct requirement to engage with alcohol counselling as directed.

He was also placed on a Restriction of Liberty Order for three months, whereby he will have to remain indoors between the hours of 7pm-7am.

In addition, McFarland was disqualified from driving for three years and must sit the extended test to get his licence back.