A careless van driver caught checking his emails moments before hitting an elderly man has been locked up for deadly driving.
Fatal Crash in Wakefield
Qabir Hussain, 54, from Lovaine Grove, Wakefield, slammed into 85-year-old David Brooke as he crossed Barnsley Road on 17 January 2022. Hussain never even saw the pensioner.
Forensic analysis revealed Hussain's phone was unlocked during the drive. He browsed emails and the web just seconds before the crash. Immediately after the fatal collision, he used the phone to dial 999.
Five Years Behind Bars
Last month, Hussain was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving at Leeds Crown Court. Today, he was sentenced to five years in prison and banned from driving.
Heartbroken Family Speak Out
"My grandad should still be here," said David's granddaughter. "The day you took him away from me and my family will live with me forever."
"You took the kindest, funniest, most loving man, everyone loved him. He enjoyed life and his family. Most of all his wife, my grandma; you have broken her.
"I miss his voice and hearing his stories, his smile and the way he said he loved me. All I have now is memories of my grandad. We love and miss him every day."
Police Warn Against Phone Use Behind the Wheel
DS Nina Roper of the Major Collision Enquiry Team warned: "This case highlights the heartbreaking consequences that can come from a lapse of concentration at the wheel.
"Using a phone while driving is one of the 'Fatal Five' offences, the top causes of serious and fatal crashes. No email, message, call or notification is more important than a life.
"If you need to use your phone, pull over safely. We're determined to educate road users as part of our Vision Zero goals to cut deaths and injuries. If tempted to reach for your phone, think of David and his family."
