JOHOR BARU: Johor police have confirmed that the driver who crashed into the motorcycle of Malaysian kayak athlete Siti Nurul Masyitah Elias had failed a breathalyser test, indicating alcohol levels were above the legal limit.
Siti Nurul Masyitah, 22, was severely injured when the alleged drunk driver crashed into her motorcycle at KM3.5 of the Eastern Dispersal Link (EDL) Highway on Saturday.
Johor Baru (South) police chief Assistant Commissioner Raub Selamat said in the 4.30pm accident, the car driver crashed into the rear of the motorcycle which was traveling on the highway towards Kota Tinggi.
The victim was severely injured. She sustained a fractured right shoulder, hip injuries, and multiple lacerations on her legs.
He said based on preliminary investigations, the driver is believed had swerved from the middle lane to the left lane abruptly, before crashing into the rear of the motorcycle.
"The driver tested negative for drugs and had no past criminal records.
"However, a breathalyser test confirmed he was under the influence of alcohol when the accident occurred.
"He also had seven outstanding traffic violations," he said.
The man in his 30s, was detained for 24 hours before he was released on police bail.
Investigations are currently underway according to Section 44 of the Road Transport Act 1987, for driving under the influence of alcohol and causing injury.
If convicted, the driver faces a prison term of between seven and 10 years, and a maximum fine of RM50,000.
He also called on those who witnessed the accident to contact investigating officer Inspector Kelly Lee Ya Yek at 014-6977122.