…By Jack Sylva for TDPel Media.
Shocking Incident and Life-Changing Injuries
In a shocking incident, Steven Selwood, a drink driver, struck a cyclist and drove over her, causing severe injuries.
The victim, a woman in her 70s, suffered life-changing wounds as a result of the collision.
Despite the victim being trapped under his vehicle, Selwood continued driving.
Release of Footage as a Warning
The victim, who still suffers from physical and mental injuries, allowed the release of the incident footage as a cautionary message about the potential consequences of drink driving.
She hopes that sharing her experience will serve as a warning to others.
In her impact statement, she describes the lasting impact on her life, including nightmares, fear of traffic, and a decline in mental well-being.
The incident involving a drink driver causing grave harm to a cyclist underscores the dangers associated with driving under the influence.
The release of the footage adds a visual dimension to the incident, making it even more impactful and serving as a powerful warning to others.
The victim’s decision to share her experience, despite her ongoing struggles, highlights her courage and desire to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
Her profound emotional and physical suffering emphasizes the severe consequences of such reckless behavior.
Details of the Incident and Legal Consequences
The incident occurred in Haslemere, Surrey, on May 12, 2022, when Selwood collided with the cyclist, knocking her off her bike, and subsequently driving over her.
Shockingly, members of the public can be seen attempting to intervene in the footage, but Selwood drives away before later returning to the scene.
He was identified and arrested by witnesses.
In the subsequent legal proceedings, Selwood was sentenced to two years and three months in jail and received a three-year driving disqualification.
He was found guilty of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving while over the legal alcohol limit.
The fact that members of the public attempted to stop Selwood demonstrates the collective responsibility to prevent harm and hold individuals accountable for their actions.
The legal consequences, including imprisonment and driving disqualification, reflect the seriousness of the offense and the need to deter others from engaging in similar dangerous behavior.
Police Officer’s Statement and Call for Responsibility
Sergeant Joe McGregor, the investigating officer from Surrey Police, commented on the shocking footage and its potential impact.
He commended the members of the public who intervened and expressed the victim’s gratitude toward them.
The victim hopes that her case serves as a powerful reminder that driving under the influence is never acceptable, endangering lives and causing lifelong physical and mental scars.
Analysis:
The statement from Sergeant Joe McGregor acknowledges the shocking nature of the incident and highlights the importance of the released footage as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by drink driving.
The appreciation expressed toward the members of the public who intervened underscores the significance of community involvement in addressing such incidents.
The victim’s desire to raise awareness and prevent future occurrences reinforces the need for individual responsibility and the recognition that driving under the influence puts lives at risk.