UK NEWS

JUDGE HITS OUT OVER CARNAGE OF DRIVER, 86

Emma Woolnough: Devastated.

Saturday October 25,2008

By Laura Clout

A JUDGE called for tougher checks on older drivers after an 86-year-old heart patient ploughed into three pedestrians, causing horrific injuries.

Allan Skoyles, who is registered deaf, had suffered a stroke and undergone eight heart bypass operations, mounted the pavement while trying to park his Ford Focus, striking an elderly couple and a 23-year-old woman, whose lower leg had to be amputated.

Giving him a suspended sentence for dangerous driving, Judge Peter Jacobs said all motorists over 75 should be tested to ensure they are still safe on the road. Under the present system, drivers over 70 have to fill in a form every three years declaring any medical problems. But no independent check is made on their fitness to drive.

The judge told Skoyles: “No one says this was deliberate or malicious but you should not have been in that car. The problem is people are not going to say they are no longer fit to drive. They regard cars as essential.” Skoyles, of Gorleston, Norfolk, accidentally hit the accelerator instead of the brake, Norwich Crown Court was told.

He should have gone to prison, even if it was for a week

Christine Carter, a friend of the Willetts

The accident happened outside a church in Gorleston in February.

Arthur Willett, 77, died shortly afterwards and his family blame the crash for the rapid deterioration in his health. His wife Joyce, also 77, is in hospital with hip injuries.

Emma Woolnough, who was on her way to work, said losing a foot had left her devastated.

Skoyles was given an eight-month suspended sentence, fined £2,000 and banned from driving for three years. His lawyer said: “He is deeply sorry for what occurred.”