A drink driver wound up passengers by driving too fast before crashing head-on into another car, a court in Wales heard. Daniel Comben, 22, was driving his partner’s car at speeds of around 80mph after drinking in a pub. Despite pleas from his passengers to slow down, Comben continued speeding and swerving on the road. The incident took place on December 9 last year between Aberdare and Bridgend, leading to a collision with another vehicle driven by a 61-year-old man. Comben’s three passengers sustained injuries, with one requiring CT and MRI scans for head and neck injuries.
At a recent court hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, it was revealed that Comben was over the drink drive limit at the time of the crash. He had 113 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, exceeding the legal limit of 80 milligrammes. Comben, from Aberffrwd Road, Mountain Ash, admitted causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving over the legal alcohol limit, and driving without insurance. He expressed remorse for his actions and accepted the consequences. In court, it was mentioned that Comben believed he was insured to drive the car involved in the crash, although he was not.
The judge sentenced Comben to two years in prison, suspended for 18 months, and imposed various requirements, including rehabilitation, alcohol monitoring, unpaid work, a driving ban for three years, and ordered him to pay costs and a victim surcharge. Despite Comben’s previously good character, the judge emphasized the seriousness of his reckless driving and the potential consequences. Comben’s actions were deemed extremely dangerous, with the judge noting that it was fortunate no fatalities occurred in the crash.
The court hearing shed light on the consequences of irresponsible driving and the importance of adhering to road safety regulations. Comben’s case serves as a reminder of the dangers of drink driving and the significant impact such behaviour can have on individuals involved in road accidents. It highlights the need for drivers to act responsibly and prioritise the safety of themselves and others while on the road.