A van driver tailgated an ambulance on a 999 call and used it to cut through traffic, a court has heard. Mark Clayton was seen recording his driving on his phone and laughing as he closely followed the emergency vehicle. When the 25-year-old builder was pulled over by police, he told the officer he had been “in a bit of a rush”.
A judge at Swansea Crown Court said the defendant had clearly thought it was “good sport” to tailgate an ambulance and film it. The judge emphasised that the road is not a playground and expressed concern about the growing number of people behaving recklessly on the roads.
Regan Walters, prosecuting, explained that on August 6 this year, a police officer witnessed the van closely following an ambulance with its emergency lights flashing on the A4138 near Llanelli. The officer observed the van using the ambulance to progress through traffic, with the driver laughing and recording his driving on his phone.
The officer subsequently pulled Clayton over and upon questioning, Clayton admitted to following the ambulance because he was in a hurry. Clayton, who had a previous conviction for driving offences, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving. His defence lawyer described him as a hard-working individual but acknowledged the seriousness of his actions.
Judge Geraint Walters condemned Clayton’s behaviour as foolish and dangerous, highlighting the risks associated with distracted driving, especially when tailgating emergency vehicles. Despite considering Clayton’s guilty plea and positive attributes, the judge imposed a suspended eight-month prison sentence, along with a driving ban and community service.
The judge urged drivers to be more responsible on the roads, warning of the severe consequences of causing accidents due to reckless behaviour. He stressed the need for motorists to prioritise safety and refrain from dangerous driving practices to prevent tragic incidents.