Language barrier at accident scene

Algars Staskevics, 41, of Devonshire Road, Blackpool, a Lithuanian who had the court proceedings relayed to him by interpreter, pleaded guilty to failing to report an accident magistrates in the resort heard.

Martine Connah, prosecuting, said the defendant was driving a Ford Focus on January 29 at 10.20pm when he collided with a Peugeot 107 on the resort’s Dickson Road. The defendant got out of his car but later drove off.

Patrick Nelligan, defending, said his client got out and tried to have a conversation with the other driver, but he could not speak English. He was unaware of the law that the accident had to be reported.

Stasteviks was fined £165 with £85 costs, ordered to pay £20 victims’ surcharge and had five motoring penalty points put on his licence by magistrates.