A medical professional under the influence of alcohol caused a serious collision with a taxi driver, resulting in severe injuries. Nayer Youakim, a doctor in training, was found to have exceeded the legal alcohol limit when he veered onto the wrong side of Beach Road in North Shields, North Tyneside, colliding with a taxi on November 24, 2024.
Following the incident, Youakim initially downplayed his alcohol consumption to the police, claiming to have only consumed two pints. However, tests conducted at the scene and in custody revealed his blood alcohol level to be 72 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath, well above the legal limit of 35 micrograms.
During court proceedings, it was disclosed that the taxi driver had just finished dropping off a passenger when the collision occurred. The impact caused the taxi to spin across the road, while Youakim’s vehicle ended up on the pavement. The taxi driver sustained serious injuries, including a fractured shoulder and arm, a swollen hip, and possible broken ribs. Despite facing a challenging recovery journey, the driver expressed gratitude for surviving the ordeal.
Youakim, residing in Solihull, West Midlands, pleaded guilty to causing serious injury through dangerous driving and driving under the influence. The judge acknowledged his medical profession and the potential consequences on his career if imprisoned. Ultimately, Youakim received an 18-month suspended prison sentence, along with 250 hours of unpaid work, £150 in costs, and a two-year driving ban with a requirement for an extended driving test.
In his defense, Youakim’s legal representative characterized the incident as a rare lapse in judgment, emphasizing his client’s genuine remorse and efforts to address his actions. The defense asserted that the incident was an isolated occurrence and not reflective of Youakim’s typical behavior.