A drug driver who ignored a lane closure before crashing his HGV into a stationary police car, seriously injuring two police officers, has been jailed. Christopher Swain appeared at Lincoln Crown Court on Tuesday (August 10) where he was sentenced for two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and for being over the specified limit for cannabis.
He was also disqualified from driving for four years and ordered to retake another driving test.
The 38-year-old from St Peter’s Road, Stowmarket in Suffolk had earlier pleaded guilty to both offences.
PC Christopher Windsor-Beck and PC Matt Brand had responded to reports of a broken-down lorry on the A1 at Colsterworth, shortly after 11.20 am on November 25, last year.
While waiting for recovery, a second lorry driven by Swain, drove through the lane closure, and struck the stationary police vehicle from behind, causing serious injuries to both officers.
Their injuries include fractures to the spine, broken ribs, and a broken collarbone.
PC Windsor-Beck and PC Brand have also suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) since the incident. Swain sustained minor injuries during the incident.
Grantham Sergeant Dan McCormack said: “This was a difficult incident involving two members of my team who were simply carrying out their duties in keeping the public of Lincolnshire safe.”
He continued: “The dangers of getting behind the wheel after using any drug are highlighted in this incident.
“The driver’s reaction times were greatly impeded, and I have no doubt that this was the main contributing factor to this accident.
Both PC Brand and PC Windsor-Beck are still recovering but have returned to work.
