A speeding driver who caused a head-on collision in Gateshead, seriously injuring two women, has avoided jail despite fleeing the scene in a stolen car.
Crash Details
Bradley Kain, 25, was driving a stolen Ford Focus at 55mph in a 30mph zone when he attempted to overtake another vehicle on Leam Lane in December 2022.
- Kain clipped a Volkswagen Golf before swerving into the path of a Toyota carrying two women returning from shopping.
- The Toyota driver suffered serious internal injuries, requiring surgery on her bowel, along with fractures to her wrist and foot. She spent six weeks in hospital.
- The passenger sustained multiple fractures in her leg and foot, as well as fluid in her abdomen.
Kain fled the scene, leaving the injured women trapped in their car.
Police Investigation & Forensic Evidence
- Dashcam footage captured the moments leading up to the crash, showing Kain’s reckless driving and dangerous overtaking.
- The Ford Focus had been stolen from a secure compound in Middlesbrough and fitted with cloned plates.
- Forensic evidence linked Kain to the crime, with his DNA found on the airbag and his fingerprints on the rear plate.
Court Hearing & Sentencing
At Newcastle Crown Court, Kain pleaded guilty to two counts of causing serious injury by careless driving.
Judge Adams condemned Kain’s actions, saying:
“Your reckless driving has caused immense suffering to these women, who will live with the injuries you inflicted for a long time.
Despite the seriousness of the offence, Kain was sentenced to:
- 12 months in prison, suspended for 18 months
- A two-year driving ban
Victims Speak Out
One of the victims described Kain’s actions as “disgraceful and cowardly”, adding that she would “never fully recover” from her injuries.
Public Reaction & Concerns
The lenient sentencing has raised concerns over justice for victims of dangerous driving. Kain’s “moment of madness” left two women with life-changing injuries, yet he avoided jail time.
