Alcohol and scooters are not a good mix. Not insinuating you were drunk but it doesn't take much booze to affect bike operating abilities. And yes, I am speaking from experience (at home with my dual purpose). Seeing as you were able to walk away (ride), could have been much worse.
So why are you calling Gasford "evil"? I have had no issues renting from him, have found him to be a man of his word.