A DRIVER who smashed into another motorist walked off leaving him in shock and waiting for the emergency services, a court was told.

Burnley Magistrates heard how David Watkins, 42, had lost control and bounced off victim Neil Sunderland's vehicle before hitting a tree.

He later told police he had overfilled his car with petrol causing the underseal to melt.

Watkins, of Stoney Street, Burnley, admitted failing to report an accident and driving without due care and attention, last September. He was fined £90, with £30 costs and given six penalty points.

Mercedah Jabbari, prosecuting, told the court Mr Sunderland was driving towards Todmorden when he saw the defendant skidding towards him. He braked but due to the speed of Watkins' car was unable to avoid a collision.

Watkins' vehicle bounced off Mr Sunderland's car and hit a tree. Mr Sunderland was very shocked and suffered stiffness in his neck and shoulder. Both drivers got out of their vehicles and Watkins asked the victim: "Have you got your documents?" Mr Sunderland said his documents were not with him and Watkins then asked him to move his car as it was blocking the road.

Miss Jabbari said Mr Sunderland refused and said he wanted to wait for the emergency services. Watkins then walked away from him. Police arrived minutes later.

Mr Sunderland's car was taken to a garage where mechanics thought it might be a write off. The defendant was later arrested and told police he lost control because he had overfilled the car with petrol.

Graeme Tindall, defending, said a momentary loss of control caused Watkins' vehicle to skid. Both drivers were shocked.

Mr Tindall said Watkins was not deliberately intending to avoid the consequences of his actions. He made an attempt to offer his details.