Hit-and-Run Fiend Crashes into Motorcyclist and Flees the Scene
Jason Collins, 46, ignored the rules of the road and pulled out of a junction without so much as a glance. The reckless move catapulted a motorcyclist into the air in a terrifying collision.
Instead of stopping, Collins sped off, leaving the injured rider for dead in the early hours of 6 October 2021 in Sutton-in-Ashfield.
Police Chase Ends in Arrest After High-Speed Crash
Nottingham Crown Court revealed Collins, with a staggering 150 previous convictions for drugs, violence, and motoring offences, was already under police surveillance. Officers had spotted him acting suspiciously while parked moments before the crash.
He shot right from Mason Street onto Unwin Road without stopping or checking for traffic, smashing head-on into the motorcyclist. The officers trailed behind, unable to witness the crash at such breakneck speed.
Collins’ car was wrecked — windscreen smashed — but he still punched the accelerator and fled the scene.
The police caught up shortly after, sparking a pursuit until Collins ditched his Vauxhall Vectra and bolted into a nearby property. Officers gave chase and arrested him inside.
Victim Severely Injured – Driver Caught and Sentenced
The 19-year-old motorcyclist was rushed to hospital with multiple fractures, including a broken back. The court heard the injuries caused “long-lasting” trauma and unsettling flashbacks.
During questioning, Collins tried to pin the blame on an imaginary driver, claiming he was just a passenger. The lies quickly unraveled.
Facing justice at Nottingham Crown Court on 21 March 2023, Collins pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious injury. He was handed a tough three-year sentence.
He must serve half in prison and the rest on community licence. A three-year driving ban kicks in a year from now, after his time behind bars.
Police Blast Reckless Driver’s “Staggering Disregard”
“Collins showed a staggering disregard not only for the police officers who pursued him but also for the safety of other road users,” said PC Lyndon Brown, the investigating officer.
“His reckless driving nearly killed a young motorcyclist. Thankfully, the rider survived but the physical and mental scars run deep. The judge was clear: while the bones may mend, the psychological damage will last a lifetime.
“Nottinghamshire Police will never tolerate such dangerous driving. Collins thought he could get away with it, but he didn’t count on our officers’ determination. We hope this sentence prompts him to rethink his life choices.”
