A Melksham man has been found guilty of causing serious injury by dangerous driving following a four day trial.
Graham Hill, aged 56, of Southbrook Road in Melksham, appeared at Swindon Crown Court last week where a jury found him guilty of the offence.
At approximately 3.30 pm on 4th August 2015, the victim – a 60-year-old man from Pewsey and two members of his family were travelling in the left hand lane past Asda on the A350 and exited the roundabout towards Bowerhill, when he became aware of Hill travelling in the right hand lane behind him. A short distance from the roundabout, the victim stopped and got out of his vehicle to speak to Hill after he was seen to gesture towards him and an altercation followed between the pair.
Hill later got back in his vehicle and drove off. In doing so, he struck the victim to his leg, causing him to fall onto the bonnet. He continued driving, causing the victim to roll up the front windscreen and onto the ground where he hit his head.
He was taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol and sustained a fractured skull, a bleed on the brain and bruising to the brain, as well as a torn triceps muscle which had to be reattached.
Detective Constable Kev Golledge said, “This incident took place following a minor road rage incident, and escalated quickly. Hill acted out of a few seconds of rage, and his actions have led to a man suffering serious injuries – some of these injuries will have a long lasting effect. A man of previous good character is now facing a possible jail sentence.
“I would like to pay tribute to the victim in this case, as well as those who witnessed the incident and were able to give evidence in court. I would also like to take this opportunity to remind motorists of the importance of driving safely, having respect for other road users and being patient. This case clearly shows how these incidents can escalate by something minor and have a detrimental impact on many lives.”
Hill will be sentenced on a date yet to be fixed.