Drug driver hit pedestrian on hard shoulder of M8 near Harthill

A van driver who had taken drugs collided with a pedestrian on the hard shoulder of the M8 near Harthill, resulting in the victim suffering “catastrophic” injuries. David Nicolson, aged 36, has been advised to prepare for a potential prison sentence after the incident occurred on October 17, 2022. Nicolson, residing on New Inchinnan Road in Paisley, appeared at Hamilton Sheriff Court and confessed to causing serious harm to Ryan Docherty by dangerously driving with significantly more ketamine in his system than the legal limit.

During the court hearing, it was revealed that the victim sustained a brain injury along with fractures to his skull, face, ribs, and spine. Following the crash, he underwent extensive medical treatment including facial reconstruction and rehabilitation. The prosecution outlined that the collision occurred around 3.45 pm when Mr. Docherty, a roofer, and two colleagues were returning home from work in Edinburgh. Mr. Docherty had parked the works van on the hard shoulder for a restroom break when he was struck by Nicolson’s van.

Nicolson, who was driving alone in a Renault Trafic van, drifted onto the hard shoulder, colliding with the back of the stationary van and hitting Mr. Docherty, causing him to be thrown into the air and land on the carriageway. Subsequently, Mr. Docherty’s van was pushed up the grass verge with his colleagues still inside. Nicolson’s lawyer acknowledged his client’s underlying drug misuse issue for which he has been receiving treatment, noting a decline in his physical and mental health post-accident.

Sheriff Michael Higgins deferred sentencing for further background reports and imposed an interim driving ban on Nicolson while allowing him to remain on bail. Expressing the gravity of the situation, Sheriff Higgins highlighted the catastrophic impact on the victim, indicating that a custodial sentence is likely.

The heart-wrenching incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drug driving and the importance of responsible and vigilant driving practices on public roads. The judiciary system’s emphasis on ensuring accountability for such actions aligns with the broader societal imperative of upholding road safety standards.

In conclusion, the article highlights a tragic event on the M8 motorway near Harthill caused by drug driving. It underscores the severe repercussions of reckless driving behaviour and the legal ramifications that follow. The diligent reporting serves as a platform to raise awareness about road safety and advocate for responsible driving practices to prevent similar incidents in the future.