Woman Who Fell Asleep at Wheel Kills Mother in Horrific Crash
Janet Macey was behind the wheel of her mother’s Honda Jazz on the A229 at Hurst Green when disaster struck. She drifted into the opposite lane and smashed head-on into a Ford Mondeo.
The crash on 26 February 2020 claimed the life of 88-year-old Margaret Skeet from Hawkhurst. Margaret was the front-seat passenger in the Jazz.
Serious Injuries and Shocking Admission
Macey, 65, from Cranbrook, Kent, suffered serious injuries, along with the Ford driver— a 68-year-old man from Heathfield.
At the scene, Macey told Good Samaritans she had suddenly fallen asleep at the wheel. She confirmed this in a police interview and was charged with causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving.
Guilty Plea and Heavy Sentence
Initially pleading not guilty, Macey later changed her plea to guilty before her trial began. On 26 July, Lewes Crown Court handed her 21 months in prison, suspended for 12 months.
She was banned from driving for 10 years and will have to pass an extended driving test before getting her licence back.
Police Warn: Falling Asleep at the Wheel Is Deadly
“Falling asleep at the wheel can be devastating for the driver, passengers and other road users,” said Detective Constable Kelly Newton from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit.
“Any crash caused by falling asleep is classed as dangerous driving—a serious offence that can mean up to 14 years behind bars. Let this case be a warning to all drivers.”
