A COLES semi-trailer driver who had to take a different route due to Warrnambool road works and collided with a bank building causing more than $12,000 damage has been fined in court.
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Singh Bikramjit, 37, of Newbury Boulevard, Craigieburn, pleaded guilty in the Warrnambool Magistrates Court to failing to report an accident and careless driving.
He was not convicted and fined $1000 along with $119 costs.
Bikramjit’s licence was not suspended.
Police said that on the morning of March 29 Bikramjit was driving a prime mover towing a Coles semi-trailer at 5.45am when he turned right from Koroit Street into a lane way.
The truck and trailer connected with the National Australia Bank building and signage dropped off.
Bikramjit stopped the truck and removed the signage.
Police attended, investigated and found security camera footage of the accident which identified Bikramjit.
He was interviewed, admitted driving and the total damage bill, which has been paid for by insurance, was $12,735.
Bikramjit said he was forced to detour from his normal route because of roadworks on Liebig Street.
He said he was stressed, didn’t understand what he should do and he was still now delivering for Coles.
Magistrate Leonard Brear said Bikramjit had a good driving record and imposed the fine without a licence suspension.
“In future if you are involved in an accident where damage is caused you must report it to the owner of the damaged property or police,” he said.
