A DRIVER who collided with a motorbike while carrying out a “dangerous” and “impulsive” overtaking manoeuvre has been jailed for 18 months.

Ronald Hall was travelling down a single carriageway stretch of the A66 in his Mercedes C22 when he hit a patch of heavy traffic.

As he attempted to overtake several vehicles he hit motorcycle that was travelling in the opposite direction.

Two passengers were thrown from the motorbike and suffered from multiple fractures.

The male victim, who broke 11 bones, said the impact on his life had been “devastating”.

“My social life has been affected adversely. I was keen on keeping fit but since the accident I have not been able to do this,” he said.

The female victim added that she had to leave her job as an English teacher after the crash.

Hall, 49, who has previously been jailed for supplying drugs, admitted two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Ian West, prosecuting, said: “Hall was involved in a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre that was far below the standard of a good driver.”

Mark Styles, mitigating, said that a custodial sentence should not be applied due to Hall’s health.

“It is a terminal illness and there is no ultimate prognosis to timescale. He has respiratory problems and it is altogether an unhappy picture,” he added.

“It was a momentary and impulsive decision. It was just a gross misjudgement of the prevailing circumstances.

“The consequences for Mr Hall are stark either way. The impact will fall on his partner.”

Recorder Angus Withington, sitting at Teesside Crown Court, said Hall was “determined” to overtake as many cars as he could.

Speaking to the defendant, he said: “You had a complete disregard to other road users.

“You are guilty of aggressive driving and making an inappropriate attempt to overtake. It displays gross misjudgement and impatience.

“You were solely responsible for this accident.”

Hall, of Girton Walk, Darlington, was given two 18-month prison sentences, to run concurrently, and was disqualified for driving for two-and-a-half years. He must complete an extended retest before he is allowed to drive again.