Hit and run driver who smashed into motorist after petrol garage row jailed

A woman who drove her car into a fellow motorist after an early morning road-rage incident has been jailed.

Lauren Willis, 28, drove her Volkswagen Golf into an Audidriver after they clashed near a petrol station in Sittingbourne, Kent, in May last year. The pair had argued over Willis’ driving before both heading off in the same direction, according toKent Police.

They then stopped near a roundabout on the A249 and got out of their cars to continue the argument. Police say an altercation then took place, and Willis got back into her car before driving towards the man and colliding with him.

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She caused injuries to the man’s face, teeth and hands as he was thrown from the car’s windscreen before landing on the road. Willis then left the scene. Emergencyservices attended the scene at about 5am and the man was taken to hospital, from where he was later discharged.

An investigation was launched into Willis by the police, and she was arrested in Ware, Hertfordshire, two days later. Willis was charged in June 2024 and she later pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent at Maidstone Crown Court.

Willis, who is from Gillingham in Kent, has been sentenced to three years and six months in prison. She was also disqualified from driving for five years and nine months.

Det Const Rob Sircar said: "Willis' driving that morning was nothing less than appalling. She put her victim through a terrifying ordeal, and it is only by good fortune that the consequences were not far worse.

"I'm pleased that Willis has been jailed and that she will be prevented from getting behind the wheel upon her release.

Sircar added: "I hope it brings a sense of comfort to those who have been affected by her behaviour, whilst giving her time to reflect upon her actions and amend her ways."

Kent Police advises that if a driver is involved in a road traffic collision, they should stop at the scene as it is a legal requirement to stop as soon as it is safe to do so. The driver should also switch off the car engine, switch on the hazard lights, and check for any injuries.

Emergency services should be called on 999 if someone is in danger, someone has been seriously injured, if you believe a serious offence has been committed, or if the collision has caused a blockage or dangerous obstruction of the road.