A learner driver has offered police an utterly bizarre excuse for speeding in Sydney’s northwest while unsupervised behind the wheel.
The 20-year-old was caught travelling up to 130km/h along Old Windsor Rd in Glenwood on May 30. The signposted speed is just 80km/h.
The white Suzuki Vitara was stopped by Hills Highway Patrol officers just before 1am, before the driver produced a NSW C-class learner’s licence and offered them an unbelievable reason for racing down the road.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today
“When asked about the speed and being unsupervised he stated, ‘I was just trying to get my hours up’,” police said.
NSW learner drivers under the age of 25 need to log 120 hours of supervised driving, including at least 20 hours of night driving.
Learners are restricted to a top speed of 90km/h, regardless of the posted speed limit.
The Lakemba man underwent testing and was clear of drugs and alcohol.
He was issued an infringement notice for travelling 45km/h above the speed limit, not being accompanied by a licensed driver as a learner, and not displaying his L plates.
He was suspended on the spot and won’t be able to drive for six months.
The vehicle was not owned by the driver and the number plates remained on the vehicle, police said.
“Oh well, he’ll get his hours up walking. Great result Highway Patrol to get this person off the road,” one person replied to a police post on Facebook.
“The owner of the vehicle should be issued a heavy fine for allowing this learner to use their vehicle.”
Another said it would be “satisfying” to see the Lakemba man’s licence suspended for 12 months.
“These people don’t deserve to drive,” they said.