A drunk driver who lost his licence after crashing on his way to Bunnings following a shift at a local chicken shop admits it was a "big f**k up".
Alexander James Masson appeared in Albany Magistrate's Court on Tuesday where he pleaded guilty to driving in excess of 0.08.
The court heard he was driving a Toyota LandCruiser along Albany Highway near Salisbury Road in McKail about 3.35pm on September 9 when he veered to the wrong side of the road.
He then crashed into a ute causing severe damage to the fronts of both vehicles.
The court heard the two occupants of the ute sought medical assistance but escaped any serious injuries.
'Driving erratically'
Police said they had received reports of a person "driving erratically" before the collision.
Masson was breathalysed at the scene and police said he returned a blood alcohol content reading of 0.122.
His defence counsel argued that although the charge was concerning, her client had been fatigued due to working local shifts at a chicken store in Mount Barker.
She said Masson had been awake for 22 hours and was on his way to Bunnings when the crash occurred.
She also said he had since consulted with his GP and a counselling service to get some help for his alcohol misuse.
Loss of licence
Magistrate Dianne Scaddan acknowledged that taking away Masson's licence would impact on his employment but said "that's a direct consequence from your decision to drink and drive".
She said it was Masson's second offence.
Masson was fined $2000 plus court costs of $264.30.
He also had his licence suspended for 14 months.
Outside court, Masson told the ABC he was remorseful for his actions.
He said he wanted to say "sorry" to the driver of the other vehicle.
"I shouldn't of [sic] been on the road, mate; it was a big f**k up and I apologise," Masson said.
Masson also said the stubby holder pictured on the outside of his car was just a "decoration".
