INTOXICATION

Hokitika Guardian, 8 March 1929, Page 2

INTOXICATION

MEDICAL OPINIONS. CASK OF A .MOTOR CAR DRIVER. HAMILTON, .March 4. Interesting medical opinions regarding intoxication in relation to motor accidents was given to-day at the trial oil' Patrick Dcegan, driver of a car which crashed into a train at a lever crossing at Forest Lake, Hamilton, on December Ist. Alexander John Hamilton, a passenger in the car was killed and Dcegan was charged with causing his death, alternatively through intoxication or negligent driving. According to the Crown’s case Deeran had had at least six or eight beers during the afternoon, 'lhe "police and Dr Waddell declared that Dcegan was intoxicated.

Mrs Scown, who was in accused’s car with her children, said he showed no evidences of drink.

Dr A. G. Waddell, who was on the scene soon after the accident said the ivideuces of Deegan’s intoxication were rapid pulse (102 instead of the normal 70). unsteadiness, confusion in speech, besides smell of liquor. Mr -J. F. Strang, counsel for the defence, cross-examined Dr Waddell with a view to showing that Deegairs condition was due to excitement after the accident.

Mr Strang: You yourself have a great prejudice against alcohol ?

Dr AVnddell: I am a teetotaller on principle. Mr Strang: Do you think a man is capable of driving a car after having one or two beers? Dr Waddell: He is taking a risk. Mr Strang; But would you say he was incapable? Dr Waddell: Some might be capable, others would not. Mr Justice Blair: Supposing a man had had two or three drinks would his action, say, in applying the brake he delayed in consequence.

Witness said the ingestion off. alcohol undoubtedly caused mental action to be delayed. A man would act slower in a crisis who had been taking liquor. This had been proved time and again. Dr M. M. Hockin, superintendent of the Waikato Hospital, who was called regarding Hamilton’s fatal injuiies. said, m answer to Mr Strang, that taken by itself a rapid hounding pulse would not indicate insobriety. It might, following an accident, indicate excitement. It was feasible that repe-

tit-ion of iuiswors might bo duo to a state of daze. A blow behind the oar might cause a man to be dazed and affect his balance. Mr Gillies (Crown Prosecutor): I) you observed the combination of symptoms mentioned by Mr Strung and also smelled alcohol on the person, combined yvith a flushed face, what condition would you say caused those symptoms.

Witness replied that without seeing the person he did not know what he won hi say.

The case was adjourned till to-mor-row.