Prince Philip ‘could be sent on driver awareness course’ as cops investigate Sandringham smash
The Duke of Edinburgh, 97, could be made to go on a drivers' awareness course as cops investigate his collision near Sandringham with a Ford Kia
PRINCE Philip could be sent on a drivers’ awareness course after he was involved in a crash near Sandringham, it was reported tonight.
The Duke of Edinburgh, 97, appears to be determined to carry on driving despite the accident on the A149 on Thursday which left his Land Rover Freelander on its side.
Philip was spotted out driving a new car without his seatbelt on just 48 hours after the collision which left two women hospitalised.
Norfolk Police are carrying out an investigation which the Duke is complying with, according to the
The two women, aged 45 and 28, will also be contacted by the police to ask for their memories of what happened when the Kia they were travelling in collided with the Prince’s vehicle.
Police are said to be carrying out the interviews in the next few days before deciding if anyone will be charged.
Philip has already passed both a breath and eye test.
The Duke was pictured driving around the roads near Sandringham wearing dark sunglasses but not his seatbelt.
A spokesman for Norfolk Police said: “We are aware of the photograph.
“Suitable words of advice have been given to the driver and this is in line with our standard response when being made aware of or receiving such images showing this type of offence.”
Driving without a seatbelt carries a maximum fine of £500.
If Philip is found to be a fault for causing the accident he could face the possibility of being charged with driving without due care and attention, which carries a maximum fine of £5,000 and nine points on his licence.
It would seem unlikely a prosecution would be taken to court.
A police source told the Telegraph that it would be more likely the Duke would be offered a drivers’ awareness course to improve his driving skills.
A spokesman for Norfolk Police said: “As is standard procedure with injury collisions, the incident will be investigated and any appropriate action taken.”
Buckingham Palace declined to comment.