Crash motorist makes desperate plea to cling on to driving job

An Angus motorist who caused a head-on bridge crash after a blind overtaking manoeuvre has been given the chance to keep his job – despite facing a road ban.

Andrew Jaffrey from Montrose overtook another car while driving over the bridge at Rossie Island Road at excessive speed in February last year.

The 32-year-old collided with an oncoming car, damaging both vehicles, before driving off.

Jaffrey, of High Street, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court and admitted a charge of careless driving.

He also admitted failing to stop for a uniformed police officer and failing to stop and provide identification after an accident.

The court heard he had been given the chance to take a long period of leave so a disqualification would not cost him his driving job.

Defence agent Nick Markowski said his client had a criminal record but had found new work and moved house in order to make a fresh start.

“The offence was committed on February 16 and he’s made some changes to his life since then. He feels cherished in his employment,” he said.

“Mr Jaffrey doesn’t care what punishment is imposed as long as he keeps his licence.”

Sheriff Gregor Murray said: “Mr Jaffrey has placed himself in that position.

“I fully accept he’s turned his life around but the circumstances of this offence cry out for disqualification.”

The sheriff said he would defer sentence until November 30, telling Jaffrey: “I’m sympathetic to the fact that one of the major reasons for changing your life is you’ve got this job.

“That’s the dilemma you and I are in. I’m prepared to look at the concept of tailoring your disqualification around your holidays.

“It’s a big ask for your employer.” Jaffrey was warned he would also face being “clobbered” with working unpaid hours above any disqualification.