The alleged drunk driver who ploughed her car into Sandra Bullock’s vehicle on Friday night has pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence.

Bullock and her husband Jesse James were being driven home in a private vehicle in Gloucester, Massachusetts, at around 9.50pm when they were struck head-on by a grey Subaru station wagon.

The Subaru is reported to have switched lanes and smashed into the front of Bullock's car.

The driver of the Subaru, 64-year-old Lucille Gatchell, was arrested after failing a sobriety test, when she was reportedly two-and-a-half times over the legal limit.

She was arraigned in a Massachusetts District Court on Tuesday, where she faced a charge of DUI and a marked lanes violation, reports People.

At the court hearing, Gatchell used the opportunity to express her thanks to the couple for checking on her after the incident.

Her defence attorney Benjamin Richard says: "Miss Gatchell is very relieved that no one was injured. She also wants to express her gratitude to Ms. Bullock and Mr. James for what she understands was their concern for her well being after the accident."

Gatchell is next due in court on 6 June for a pre-trial hearing.