A MAN who was drink-driving at more than three times the legal limit said he mistakenly drank full-strength beer instead of light beer.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Matthew William Giri, 28, was breath-tested by police in Kangaroo Flat on June 9 last year and recorded a blood alcohol reading of 0.17.
He told police when he was pulled over at the Calder Highway that he had drank five pots of what he believed were light beers.
He said his friends must have been topping up his glass with heavy beer prior to him driving home.
The Bendigo Magistrates' Court heard it was the second time Mr Giri has lost his licence for drink-driving.
On an earlier occasion he recorded a blood alcohol reading of .140.
Prosecuting Sergeant David Somerton said the mandatory licence disqualification period for a second offence was 34 months.
The court heard Mr Giri's Holden sedan was unregistered at the time he was driving.
Magistrate Bruce Cottrill said it was ultimately Mr Giri's responsibility to make sure he was legally able to drive.
Mr Geary was given a $200 fine and had his licence disqualified for 34 months.