Robert Bragason, 57, was driving his Mini Cooper along Woodside Lane in Ryton, Gateshead, on July 12 when a temporary wheel came off, leaving the car on three wheels. He asked a passer-by for help pushing the car to a safe place, not realising the passer-by was a police officer.
The officer detected the smell of alcohol on Bragason's breath. A roadside breath test was failed, and a later reading gave 85mcg of alcohol per 100ml of breath – the legal limit is 35mcg.
Court hearing
Bragason, of Greenfields, Ryton, pleaded guilty at Newcastle Magistrates' Court to driving with excess alcohol and driving without insurance. Christopher O'Brien, prosecuting, said the officer saw the Mini approaching him on the road. "It seems the car only had three wheels because the fourth was a temporary wheel, which had detached itself. The defendant got out and asked the officer for help," he told the court.
"The officer could smell alcohol on his breath. He detained the defendant while he rang for more officers," Mr O'Brien added. The court heard Bragason also had no insurance for the vehicle.
Ban and fine
Gregg Stephens, defending, said: "The temporary wheel fell off as he was driving. He asked someone to help him and, unfortunately, that person was a passing policeman."
Bragason was banned from driving for 21 months, fined £120, and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 victim surcharge.
