Kannada Actor Mayur Patel Faces Drunk Driving Charges After Bengaluru Accident
In a late-night incident that has stirred public attention, popular Kannada actor, music director, and singer Mayur Patel was officially booked by the Bengaluru Traffic Police on Wednesday night. The case stems from allegations of driving under the influence of alcohol and causing a multi-vehicle collision at a traffic signal in the Domlur area of the city.
Details of the Domlur Chain Collision
The accident occurred around 10 PM near the Commando Hospital signal, as reported by the complainant, taxi driver Srinivas. According to his statement, a Toyota Fortuner, driven by Mayur Patel, violently struck his cab from behind. This impact set off a chain reaction, resulting in significant damage to a total of four vehicles involved in the pile-up. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among any of the occupants, averting a potential tragedy.
Police Action and Legal Violations
At the scene of the accident, traffic police officers promptly administered a breathalyser test to Mayur Patel to determine his blood alcohol content (BAC). The test revealed that his BAC level exceeded the permissible limit of 30mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood (0.03% BAC), as stipulated under the Motor Vehicles Act. An investigating officer confirmed that Mayur was indeed behind the wheel of the SUV at the time of the incident.
"He is not disputing his involvement and has committed to covering all repair costs for the damaged vehicles," the officer stated. "However, we have formally booked him for the serious offenses of driving under the influence of alcohol and causing the accident through rash and negligent driving."
Legal and Financial Repercussions
As a consequence of the booking, Mayur Patel is required to appear before the jurisdictional court, settle the imposed fine, and subsequently secure the release of his vehicle. In a further complication, police disclosed that the insurance for his Toyota Fortuner had lapsed, potentially exacerbating his legal and financial liabilities.
Impact on the Complainant, Taxi Driver Srinivas
The accident has inflicted severe financial hardship on taxi driver Srinivas, who had purchased his vehicle just a week prior through a bank loan and additional borrowings. "When I faced a shortage of funds, I even pledged my wife's jewellery to make this investment," he emotionally recounted to the police.
His taxi, now damaged at both the rear and front, has been impounded at the police station pending an inspection by Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials. "This situation forces me to wait another 3-4 days without any income," a teary-eyed Srinivas lamented. "I have a monthly bank loan installment due on February 5, adding to my distress."
Broader Implications and Community Response
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the enforcement of traffic laws in Bengaluru. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving, not only in terms of legal consequences but also the profound impact on innocent victims like Srinivas. The case is likely to proceed through the legal system, with Mayur Patel facing potential penalties under the stringent provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
