A CARELESS driver who collided with a traffic light box has been told to do unpaid work.

Christopher Bowden, of Summerlea Court, Basingstoke, was driving a Mercedes-Benz on Fleet Road, Fleet, on July 7, 2021, when he crashed into the signal box and traffic sign. 

Basingstoke Magistrates' Court heard how Bowden did not wait for police but instead called his girlfriend who took him to Frimley Park Hospital.

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On Tuesday, July 12, the court was told that Bowden had already pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention and driving without insurance. He previously denied failing to stop after an accident. 

In mitigation, Bowden's lawyer Mr Briggs said: “He should have waited for the police to arrive, and he has admitted it was not trying to avoid anything but because he was in shock and worried about his health.”

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The court heard how eyewitnesses described seeing Bowden “floor the vehicle” before crashing into the signal box.

Magistrates handed Bowden a 12-month community order including 240 hours of unpaid work. He will also receive 10 points on his licence.

The 34-year-old must also pay costs of £620 and a victim surcharge of £95.

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