A Queenstown man who crashed into a school bus after falling asleep at the wheel has been fined and ordered to pay reparation.
Baljit Singh (24), of Queenstown, was driving on Frankton Rd on November 3 last year when he fell asleep, crossed the median and collided with an oncoming Ritchies bus carrying about 30 primary and high school pupils.
The resulting traffic diversions lasted for two hours and caused gridlock, as they extended into rush hour.
A few pupils on the bus received minor injuries and Singh, who broke his leg, had to be cut from his vehicle by firefighters.
He was sentenced in the Queenstown District Court on Monday, after admitting a charge of careless driving.
Prosecuting Sergeant Ian Collin said Singh told police he had been tired from working long hours at two jobs.
Judge John Brandts-Giesen told Singh it was ``crazy'' to work long hours at two jobs and try to drive between them.
Singh was convicted and fined $250, court costs $130 and ordered to pay $450 reparation for towing and storing his damaged vehicle.
Other convictions
Andrew Marshall Wild (29), of Albert Town, drink-driving (third conviction), 992mcg, Ardmore St, September 18 last year, Wanaka; unlawfully taking a car, property of Kyle Bruce Owen, August 25 last year, Wanaka. On both charges sentenced to 280 hours' community work, 12 months' supervision for intervention for alcohol issues as directed by probation service, disqualified 18 months.
Logan Geoffrey Black (34), bouncer, of Fernhill, unlawful possession of a military-style semi-automatic rifle, July 24 last year, Queenstown, $400 fine, court costs $130, order for forfeiture of the firearm; possession of a .22 rifle without a licence, July 24 last year, Queenstown, $400 fine, court costs $130, order for forfeiture of the firearm.
Joshua Haddon (28), electrician, of Albert Town, refusing to permit a blood specimen, January 27, Wanaka, fined $850, court costs $130, disqualified 12 months.
Niall Waddell (26), British national, of Arthurs Point, assaulted Michael McBurney with intent to injure, February 25, Queenstown, fined $500, court costs $130, ordered to pay victim $1000 reparation for emotional harm.
