A woman returned a positive test for drugs after crashing into the back of another vehicle while her two young sons were in the car, a court has heard.
The woman pleaded guilty in the Bendigo Magistrates' Court on Monday to driving while suspended, careless driving and refusing to accompany police for a drug test in relation to the crash in October last year.
The court heard the woman was driving on Havilah Road in Long Gully on the morning of October 16 when she ran into the back of a car waiting at a give way sign at the intersection with Bennett Street.
Her two sons, aged 9 and 11 at the time, were also in the vehicle.
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When police arrived the woman returned a negative breath test for alcohol, but a preliminary oral fluid test indicated the presence of an illicit drug.
She initially agreed to go with police for a further test, but changed her mind and walked away.
The woman had lost her licence for six months in September that year for drug-driving.
Magistrate John Bentley said it was "unbelievable" the woman was driving while banned, with her two children in the car, while potentially affected by drugs.
Defence lawyer Peter Cutting, however, said the woman was adamant she was not under the influence of drugs, and felt she had gotten on top of her problems with methamphetamine.
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But Mr Bentley said the woman needed professional help to address her drug addiction, expressing concern for her children.
He noted she had been found driving with drugs in her system twice before and banned her from driving for four years.
Mr Bentley also ordered the woman be assessed for the Court Integrated Services Program, which could help her address her issues with drugs.
If she completed the program, he said, she would not face any other penalty, as he wanted to make sure she got assistance.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
