Dangerous Driver Inhaled Gas from Balloon, Resulting in Serious Injuries

A dangerous driver inhaling gas from a balloon while behind the wheel left a man seriously injured in a horrific crash.

Yamin Mahmad Iqbal Indawala, 27, crashed his Volkswagen Golf into parked cars, including an Audi, while dropping off two friends on the evening of April 24, 2023.

The incident occurred at around 11:40 PM on Worsley Road, where a man was collecting belongings from his parked Audi. Indawala lost control of his car and struck the parked vehicles, causing serious injuries to the victim.

The victim suffered multiple injuries, including a severely damaged foot, and was hospitalized for over a month.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Indawala had been speeding at 50 mph and had empty gas canisters found nearby. His passengers felt unsafe and suggested taking an Uber home, but he insisted on returning them to Salford Quays.

Indawala admitted causing serious injury by dangerous driving and was described as having PTSD during the proceedings.

Judge Rachel Galloway sentenced Indawala to a two-year prison term, suspended for two years. She highlighted his reckless disregard for road safety, noting the significant impact on the victim's life, including financial losses and personal difficulties.

In addition to the suspended sentence, Indawala was ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work, abide by a nine-month electronically monitored curfew, and was disqualified from driving for two and a half years. He was also required to pay £130 in costs and a victim surcharge.