A disqualified motorcycle rider has been sentenced to prison after causing a fatal collision that claimed the life of an elderly pedestrian in East Preston.
Kieran Shaw, 21, failed to see 81-year-old Janet Jacob as she was crossing the B2140 Worthing Road on October 25, 2022. Shaw, who had been banned from driving following a previous conviction for dangerous driving, struck Mrs Jacob, inflicting critical injuries. She was taken to hospital, where she later died.
Lewes Crown Court heard on February 28 that Shaw had shown a “blatant disregard for the law” by continuing to ride despite his disqualification. He also gave false details to police when stopped during the course of his ban.
Eyewitnesses saw Shaw’s Yamaha Tracer 700 motorcycle—deemed too powerful for his age group—collide with Mrs Jacob as she crossed the road. An investigation estimated his speed to be between 27mph and 38mph in a 30mph limit. While he was listening to music through a Bluetooth speaker in his helmet at the time, he denied being distracted.
The judge highlighted that even if Shaw had not been disqualified, he was still riding a vehicle unsuitable for his age category.
Mrs Jacob’s family described the incident as a “harrowing ordeal,” remembering her as a caring and loving mother and grandmother. In a statement, they condemned Shaw’s actions, stating: “Shaw is an arrogant and lawless individual with an utter disregard for safety and a blatant disregard for the law.”
Shaw, formerly a roofer from Trinity Way, Littlehampton, was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison. He was also handed a further driving disqualification of six and a half years.
Sussex Police, in sharing details of the case, emphasised the dangers of disqualified driving. A spokesperson stated: “By riding while disqualified, Shaw showed no regard for other road users. Had he not been riding that day, he would have spared Mrs Jacob’s family the ordeal they have endured. We welcome the custodial sentence imposed by the court.”
The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of ignoring driving bans and the risks posed by reckless road users.
