A banned driver has once again found himself in court after he was involved in a moped accident and broke his hand.
Shaun Hodgson was disqualified from driving after being convicted of drink-driving on November 24.
But less than two weeks later, the 26-year-old was back on the roads and riding a moped through Gateshead.
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Hodgson was caught after he crashed the moped on Chain Bridge Road on Saturday, December 4, and had to go to hospital after sustaining a serious hand injury that required surgery.
On Wednesday, Hodgson appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates' Court where he pleaded guilty to driving whilst disqualified.
Lillian Yanes-Hellevik, prosecuting, said Hodgson was riding the moped at around 11.30am when he "lost grip" and fell off the bike, injuring his left hand.
He sustained "multiple fractures" and was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for treatment and had to have pins inserted into his hand.
Ms Yanes-Hellevik said police went to the hospital where Hodgson "admitted riding whilst disqualified".
The court heard Hodgson had 13 previous conviction for 22 offences, five of which were driving related.
Val Bell, defending, said Hodgson made "full admissions" to police and has "learnt his lesson".
She said the incident has had an "impact on his employment" as a full-time roofer as he is currently unable to work.
Ms Bell added that Hodgson, of Clavering Road, Swalwell, Gateshead, had the scooter as a "project" and he was going to "do it up" and then sell it.
She said he then took it out on a "trial ride" before the accident happened, which occurred after he "skidded on a manhole cover".
The court heard there was "no evidence of bad riding" and no one witnessed the accident.
Hodgson was given an 18 month community order and must undertake 10 rehabilitation activity days.
He was also given a 16 week electronic curfew and will be banned from driving for 51 months.
Hodgson must also pay £180 costs.
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