A YOUNG motorist who turned into a petrol station in front of an oncoming car has admitted causing the resulting accident.

Stephen Evans, 20, of Chamberlain Road, Chippenham, pleaded guilty to careless driving when he appeared before north west Wiltshire magistrates on Monday.

Michelle Hewitt, prosecuting, said the accident happened at 2.15am on the A4 between Chippenham and Calne, as Evans was looking to turn into the Murco garage at Pewsham.

Ms Hewitt said Evans, driving a J-reg Ford Escort, indicated to turn right into the garage, and pulled in front of an oncoming Rover.

"As he turned right, a Rover motor car was coming along the road and the defendant pulled in front of the Rover," said Ms Hewitt.

"The force of the impact caused the Rover to collide with the door pillar of a van behind the defendant's vehicle," added Ms Hewitt.

The Rover driver said he was unable to stop and could not help but collide with the van.

In a police interview, Evans said he checked his mirror before turning into the garage, and had not seen the Rover coming.

Evans told the court he was five weeks into a new job with the benefits office in Bath, and needed his car to travel to and from work.

He said he is currently in a three-month training period and hoped to become a visiting officer, which would also require transport.

"I class myself as being a sensible driver and my parents feel that as well," said Evans.

He was fined £150, ordered to pay £35 costs, and given five points on his licence.