TWO HGV drivers have been jailed after driving the wrong way down the A19 while under the influence of alcohol.
Officers stopped the two vehicles driving into oncoming traffic on the A19 on June 14 around 9pm, after some motorists took evasive action to avoid a crash.
Today, 44-year-old Arunas Valacka, from Lithuania, and 59-year-old Andrei Vasilachi, of no fixed address, were sentenced to 12-months in prison.
Acting Inspector Steve Clyburn, from the Cleveland and Durham Specialist Operations Unit, said: “These two men put countless lives at risk on the evening that they got behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.
Arunas Valacka and Andrei Vasilachi
"Not only did they drive whilst drunk, because of this they drove along the A19 into oncoming traffic.
"A number of drivers had to take evasive action to avoid a collision, which could have easily resulted in serious injury or worse.
“I welcome the sentences given to these drivers.
"They now have the time to reflect on their actions whilst behind bars, it is only sheer luck which has saved them, and other innocent road users, from potentially losing their lives.”
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