A truck driver who hit a power pole, caused a blackout in Tomingley and blocked off the Newell Highway has pleaded guilty to high-range drink driving.
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John Andrew May, of Manly West in Queensland, spent several hours drinking beer at the Cross Roads Hotel before he collided with the pole.
After he finished his drinking session at 1.40am on November 18 last year, the 56-year-old left the pub and walked across the road to where his prime mover was parked.
According to a police facts document presented in court, Mr May got in the truck and drove it around a truck bay he was parked in.
He hit a power pole which cut electricity off in Tomingley and caused live power lines to fall across the Newell Highway.
Police said Mr May did not notice he struck the pole until a witness ran over to him and started yelling. When Mr May attempted to exit the vehicle he fell out of it.
Police from Dubbo and Peak Hill attended the scene of the collision and said Mr May stunk of alcohol.
He was taken to Dubbo Hospital for treatment and a blood test was conducted that showed a blood alcohol test returned a reading of 0.185, which was more than three times the legal limit.
In Dubbo Local Court, Magistrate Gary Wilson asked Mr Way what he was thinking when he got behind the wheel of the truck.
"I don't know your honour," Mr May said.
In a letter presented to the court, Mr May had more words to say.
"There was no excuse for my actions and I accept full responsibility for what I have done," he wrote.
"I am a family man and took pride in being a good role model for my children and grandchildren. I have regrettably let them down.
"I saw the anguish and disappointment on my wife's face when I had to tell her of the irresponsible decision I made that night".
"I have since chosen to stop driving trucks interstate and have attended counselling with my doctor".
Magistrate Wilson requested a sentencing assessment report be compiled and said he could not sentence Mr May last Wednesday because the offence was so serious.
He adjourned the case to Tweed Heads Local Court, where Mr May will be sentenced on August 5.
