Driver blames truck crash on toothache

CRUNCH: The damaged truck and trailer on Te Wharau Rd in February.PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

A driver's toothache caused a "momentary loss of concentration" when a logging truck overturned, says his lawyer.

In the Masterton District Court on Monday, Tony Andrew Lloyd, 31, of Carterton, pleaded guilty to one charge of careless driving on Te Wharau Rd on February 24.

His lawyer, James Elliott, said on the day in question his client had been suffering from a toothache which had caused a momentary loss of concentration.

This had caused him to over-correct and tip the vehicle, Mr Elliott said.

Lloyd had since had two teeth removed and a drug and alcohol test administered by his employer had come back negative.

Lloyd had also started going to the gym in an attempt to ensure he was more alert behind the wheel, Mr Elliott said.

Judge Barbara Morris said the crash was a "wake-up call".

"It will probably make you one of the safest drivers," she said.

"Clearly if a vehicle like that goes over the centre line, serious consequences are going to eventuate ... fortunately nobody was hurt, except your receiving minor cuts."

Judge Morris fined him $700 and $130 court costs.