Road-Rage Van Driver Used Vehicle As Weapon Against Cyclist

Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court

A road-rage driver, who reversed at speed towards a cyclist he had clipped with his wing mirror after colliding with the bike, received a suspended prison sentence yesterday.

John Graham, 39, was behind the wheel of his van, which came into contact with the cyclist, who thumped the vehicle's bonnet in temper as a result during an ugly confrontation three years ago.

Recorder Ann Mulligan told the father-of-two at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court: "You accelerated and drove over the bike and your wing mirror clipped his head.

"The cyclist says if he had not moved your van would have hit him.

"You drove off a considerable distance then reversed at speed and deliberately used your van as a weapon and it is a miracle this was not more serious."

Graham had used cocaine the day before the incident and now claims he no longer uses the drug.

He was sentenced to nine months imprisonment, suspended for eighteen months, and was ordered to pay 200 hours community service.

He must also pay £200 costs and a £100 victim surcharge.