The driver of a Heavy Goods Vehicle involved in a fatal collision has received a 3 year prison sentence and a 3 year disqualification from driving for the offence of causing death by dangerous driving.
Graeme Philpott, 51, was involved in an accident on the A1 near Catterick, North Yorks, in June 2010. 18 year old Ryan Gregg was part of a maintenance crew who were working on the A1 overnight. A Highways Agency vehicle was in attendance at the site and was fully illuminated so as to warn motorists of the crew working on the road. Despite this Mr Philpott failed to take any action to avoid the crew and Mr Gregg was struck by his vehicle. Mr Gregg sustained serious injuries in the collision and died in hospital.
Mr Philpott denied falling asleep at the wheel and claimed to have only been momentarily distracted. However the Court heard that the Highways Agency vehicle would have been visible for 29 seconds, sufficient time for Mr Philpott to take action to avoid it.
This case serves to illustrate the significant sentences which the Courts will impose following convictions for death by dangerous driving. If you face investigation or prosecution following a fatal accident, the importance of seeking early expert legal advice cannot be overstated. Stephensons Solicitors LLP have considerable experience of successfully defending allegations of causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by careless driving. To speak to a member of the team please call 01616 966 229.
By motoring offences solicitor, Carl Johnson
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