A driver experienced a "moment of absolute madness" after driving his car into the path of a train at a level crossing in a "dangerous manoeuvre". The train driver had to use emergency breaks in order to prevent a collision.
Dalat Gulzar, 51, ignored signs and flashing light at Llanbedr railway station, in Gwynedd, on June 19 last year and endangered the lives of his passengers and those on board the oncoming train when he pulled out in his black Range Rover. CCTV footage played to a trial at Mold Crown Court showed witnesses looking on in horror as the incident played out.
Sentencing on Wednesday, Recorder Lloyd-Jones said: "It's obvious the train driver who gave evidence suffered emotionally as a result of what unfolded before him. One of the things he said was this was one of the nearest misses he has had. CCTV from the train made for shocking viewing."
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Gulzar, of Mill Lane, Chester, pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving but was convicted by a jury. The court heard he was of previous good character.
In mitigation, Nathan Goldstein said his client was a "hard working family man" who had experienced a "moment of absolute madness" which will have a profound effect upon his life. He said the defendant, who accepted his guilt following the verdict, would suffer as a result of a driving ban and would possibly have to close his business if he were not able to properly serve his customers.
Recorder Lloyd-Jones told the defendant he had fallen below the standards of a careful and competent driver, and he could have potentially caused "serious injury or death".
Gulzar was sentenced to a 12-month community order. He was also ordered to carry out 120 hours unpaid work and ordered to pay court costs of £2,400. The defendant was also disqualified from driving for 12 months.
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