Crash driver had open cider can in his motor

Cops found booze ... but owner botched breathalyser

A motorist has jeopardised his wife’s crucial health appointments after being banned from the roads.

Paul McEnhill, of Rockmount Avenue, Barrhead, failed to provide two specimens of breath after crashing his car on August 20 last year.

The 46-year-old was involved in a collision in the town’s Gertrude Place and officers who attended found an open can of cider within his vehicle.

In a bid to fool cops, McEnhill made himself cough repeatedly while giving a breath sample, resulting in cops being unable to determine the level of booze in his system.

The procurator fiscal depute told Paisley Sheriff Court: “Around 5.25pm on Friday, August 20, the accused was involved in a minor road traffic collision in Gertrude Place, in Barrhead.

“Two witnesses were in their property nearby when they became aware of the collision and went outside.

“The accused got out his vehicle and the witnesses spoke with him and became aware of a smell of alcohol on his breath, so they contacted the police to report the matter.

“Officers attended and observed the accused to be unsteady on his feet, stumbling. His speech was slurred and his eyes were red.

“He was cautioned and admitted to consuming cider two hours prior to driving.

“However, officers noted an open can of cider within the vehicle.

“A traffic officer attended and the accused failed a roadside breath test and was subsequently arrested.

“Once in the intoximeter room at the police station, the accused sat down and before the breath test started, he began coughing and stated he was a smoker and may not be able to provide two samples.

“The process started and a specimen was recorded, but the accused continued to cough aggressively through the second specimen and was not able to provide a sample.

“Officers decided to restart the process to give the accused a chance, but he continued coughing and wheezing.

“He was cautioned and charged where he replied ‘There was a reasonable excuse’.

“He was returned to the charge bar where officers noted he was not coughing and was engaging in conversation.”

Defence agent Rhona Lynch explained McEnhill needs his driving licence to take his wife to hospital appointments.

She explained: “Mr McEnhill’s wife has a serious heart condition and requires regular check-ups at the Jubilee.

“He drives her there as she can’t drive.

“He accepts he’s brought this on himself.”

On sentencing, Sheriff Grant Hutchison said: “Your agent has advised me of your wife’s health difficulties and the need for your licence.”

Sheriff Hutchison banned McEnhill from driving for 12 months and imposed a fine of £210, to be paid at £10 per fortnight.