Bedingfield charged with careless driving

British-based pop star Daniel Bedingfield has been charged with careless use of a motor vehicle following a crash in which he fractured two vertebrae in his neck, police in Wellington, New Zealand said today.

The 24-year-old New Zealand-born singer crashed the car he was driving on January 2 after attending a Youth For Christ rural summer camp. He had to be cut from the wreckage by emergency crews. Bedingfield’s passenger was unhurt in the crash.

Northland police communications officer Richard Storey confirmed the charge had been laid.

If convicted, Bedingfield could face a maximum fine of 1,000 New Zealand dollars (€542)), and a possible temporary driving ban.

Bedingfield has been released from hospital and is expected to remain in New Zealand with his parents for up to two months to recuperate.

The singer has been nominated in three categories, including best album and best male artist, in the annual Brit Awards, one of Britain’s most prestigious pop music awards. The awards will be held in mid-February.