A researcher at the University of Huddersfield is facing an uncertain future after leaving a man badly injured.
Research scientist Paul Bailey pleaded guilty to two charges in court yesterday after a horror crash on a village road.
Bailey, 56, admitted causing serious injuries to Chris Parr, a 49-year-old musician, of Marsden, following an accident on June 7.
The defendant is said to have driven dangerously on the A62 Manchester Road, Marsden.
He was also found to have been drink driving after police officers discovered he was close to being three times over the limit.
Mr Parr, who plays with the band State of Confusion, was airlifted to hospital after the head-on smash. He later thanked his rescuers from the fire brigade and Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
Mr Parr was airlifted to the Leeds General Infirmary.
Prosecutor Andy Wills said Bailey had driven his Citroen C4 at speeds of up to 60mph along the road.
He said a witness, Howard Airey, who was driving a VW Golf noticed Bailey was driving erratically and decided to keep his distance.
Mr Wills said: “Mr Bailey misjudged a corner completely, the vehicle seemed to mount the kerb and it seemed the driver was struggling to keep control.”
Mr Parr, a drummer in a band, was on his way in his Honda to a gig in Huddersfield when Bailey collided head on with him.
Mr Wills said Mr Parr had suffered a fractured sternum and leg injuries as a result of the accident which had severe repercussions for him.
He said he needed crutches to get around on for weeks afterwards and plans for he and his partner to adopt a child had to be postponed.
He said Mr Parr still suffered “flashbacks” as a result of the accident and had to inject himself with medicine.
CCTV evidence obtained by police showed some of the collision taking place.
In interview the defendant showed remorse and told police he had been at a barbecue organised by some students.
Asked by police if he had been drinking he admitted having some white wine.
Bailey of Stonebreaks Road, Oldham, accepted he must have been on the other side of the road and said he had apologised to Mr Parr saying: “I had no idea his injuries were so bad.”
Chairman of the bench, Elizabeth Wildey, said she was referring the matter to Leeds Crown Court for sentence as the offences were too serious to be dealt with at a magistrates’ court.
She granted the defendant unconditional bail and told him to report to the court on December 24.
She also imposed an interim driving disqualification.
