HGV driver high on cannabis jailed after collision with police car leaves officers seriously injured

An HGV driver high on cannabis ploughed through a lane closure and struck a stationary police car, causing spinal fractures and broken ribs to two officers.

Christopher Swain appeared at Lincoln Crown Court on 10 August where he was sentenced for two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and for being over the prescribed limit for cannabis.

He was jailed for two years, disqualified from driving for four years and ordered to retake another driving test.

The 38-year-old from Stowmarket in Suffolk had earlier pleaded guilty to both offences.

The court heard how on 25 November last year, Lincolnshire police officers Christopher Windsor-Beck and Matt Brand responded to reports of a broken-down lorry on the A1 at Colsterworth.

Whilst waiting for recovery, a second HGV 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 since the incident.

Swain sustained minor injuries.

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.

“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.”