A driver has been jailed for launching a terrifying road rage attack that left three people injured.

Mark Attwater, 49, of Jefferson Drive, Rainham, forced a motorist to stop on the M2 after claiming his car was pranged.

The thug got out and - after a row sparked over exchanging contact details - battered him.

As both men returned to their cars, another car - a Mini - drove down the slip road.

It smashed into the victim's Citroen and then Attwater's Mercedes causing serious damage to all three cars.

The driver and passenger of the Citroen and the driver of the third car were all injured. Attwater was unhurt.

The incident happened on the M2 at junction 3 interchange near Aylesford on October 11, 2008.

Attwater denied assault and dangerous driving when he appeared at Maidstone Crown Court on May 7 but was found guilty.

Attwater was handed a year behind bars and disqualified from driving for three years.

Head of the Serious Collisions Investigation Unit, Inspector Rob Smith, said: "This is a very satisfying outcome to a road rage incident and shows that the courts take such offences seriously.

"Three people were injured but it could have been much worse.

"I hope that this case reinforces to all road users that a fit of temper behind the wheel is not only inappropriate but extremely dangerous and that the road needs to be respected.

"Road rules exist for a reason. They’re designed to protect life and ensure safety.

"The most appropriate course of action to take if you believe you’ve been wronged is to contact the police and not take the matter into your own hands.

"Thankfully road rage, that results in physical injuries, is uncommon but one case is one too many and Kent Police will pursue offenders relentlessly."