Man Jailed Over Fatal Lingfield Crash That Killed ‘Gentle Giant’ Biker
A 38-year-old driver has been locked up for 16 months and banned from the roads for nearly four years after causing a deadly crash in Lingfield in 2018.
James Wells Sentenced for Deadly Crash
James Wells, from Oxted, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving after a head-on smash on Tandridge Lane on the evening of 16 September 2018. His victim was 54-year-old motorcyclist Philip McClean.
Wells was initially charged with causing death by dangerous driving but was cleared of that charge following a recent trial. However, the careless driving plea stuck, earning him the jail term and a three year and eight months driving ban.
He must also pass an extended driving test before hitting the road again.
Crash Details: Wrong Side of Road Horror
At around 5.40pm, Wells was behind the wheel of a silver Vauxhall Vectra when he collided head-on with Philip’s red Suzuki Bandit motorcycle. Emergency services were called just 15 minutes later, but tragically, Philip was pronounced dead at the scene.
Forensic investigators revealed Wells had driven 55 metres on the wrong side of the road just before the fatal collision.
There were no independent witnesses to the crash.
Shock History and Family Reaction
Police records showed Wells had been involved in an earlier minor incident that same afternoon at a Felbridge petrol station, passing all roadside breath and drug tests.
During sentencing, Wells’ prior conviction for drink and drug driving in November 2020 was also brought up.
Detective Sergeant Kani Barawi said:
“Wells’ reckless behaviour and reprehensible decision to drive on the wrong side of the road with no explanation given to the McClean family has robbed a family of a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, leaving behind a massive hole in their lives.”
Philip’s daughter Megan spoke on behalf of the family:
“Philip is missed just as much today as he was the day he was killed. The family has fought for justice and this afternoon it was served, all be it nowhere near enough to match the size of the man that we have lost.
“We are so grateful that everything that happened is now in the public domain and it is known that my Dad was not at fault. I’ll continue to keep my Dad’s memory alive and he lives on through all those who love him.”
