Lancashire MP’s 'drink-drive' warning after family car crash
A Lancashire MP has issued a seasonal warning about the dangers of drink driving - after her family’s car was hit by a motorist subsequently charged with the offence.
Hyndburn representative Sarah Smith revealed that her husband, son and mother-in-law were recently returning from a shopping trip, when the vehicle they were travelling in was struck from the side.
In a post on Facebook, the Labour MP said: “A car came straight across them, hit our wheel next to where my son was in the car, before driving across the pavement and ending up in the wall opposite.
“The driver was arrested and later charged with several offences. Fortunately, everyone walked away with only minor injuries.”
Lancashire Constabulary said that they had been called to what they described as “a minor injury road traffic collision” on Union Road in Oswaldtwistle on the afternoon of 29th November.
A 24-year-old woman from the Greater Manchester area was later charged with driving with excess alcohol, driving without insurance, driving whilst disqualified and driving a motor vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence, the force said. She was bailed to appear at Blackburn Magistrates Court on 7th January, 2026.
Ms. Smith added: “My message to all of us this festive season, is please either nominate your driver, order a cab or walk home - don’t take the risk of getting behind the wheel after enjoying a few glasses of whatever you enjoy. Let’s make sure it’s a safe and Merry Christmas.”
She also paid tribute to passers by who were at the scene of the incident for “stopping to look after us” and thanked staff at the nearby Black Dog pub for their help.