A dangerous driver who seriously injured a teenage girl in a crash during a pursuit on the A350 near Chippenham has been jailed.
Patrick McCann smashed his BMW 3 Series into a Volkswagen Caravelle, containing a family, outside Whitehall Garden Centre on Saturday 1 February this year.
The 34-year-old pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, driving while unfit, driving while disqualified and escaping lawful custody.
Swindon Crown Court, on 26 June, heard that the defendant drove at speed to avoid a traffic stop by officers over concerns the car was stolen – before colliding with the Caravelle.
A 14-year-old girl suffered serious injuries and was taken to Southmead Hospital. Her parents and three siblings also sustained injuries.
McCann, of Hillingdon, London, was jailed for 44 months and banned from driving for 70 months, which will start on his release from prison.
In their victim impact statement, the family said the effects of the collision had extended far beyond the physical injuries. They described living with ongoing anxiety and trauma, with both parents being diagnosed with PTSD, while everyday situations such as passing road traffic collisions or attending hospital appointments continue to trigger distressing memories.
They said the crash had fundamentally changed their sense of safety, leaving them fearful for their children’s wellbeing and continuing to affect their health, confidence, education and family life.
While grateful their daughter survived, they said the consequences of McCann’s actions remain part of their daily lives months after the collision.
PC Paul Brewster, from Wiltshire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Team, said: “McCann’s selfish and reckless actions caused serious injuries to a young girl, whilst her three siblings and parents also in the vehicle sustained lesser though not insignificant physical injuries.
“It is important to also note the psychological impact of an incident like this on a young family who were simply going about their day. My thoughts go out to them as they continue to deal with the effects of their ordeal.
“I am pleased McCann has been given a custodial sentence – this reflects the serious nature of his offending and should send a strong message to anyone who commits such offences that they will face prosecution and be put before the courts.”
