Prison for Car Crash Motorist Who Used a Mobile Phone

A 23 year old woman from Manchester, UK has been sentenced to 6 years in prison after pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and given a five year driving ban. She was arrested following an accident where she was found to be both over the alcohol limit, but also using a mobile phone at the time of the crash.

Sarah Taylor who is from Munn Road in the City crashed her Fiat Stilo into Melanie Simon LeeĆ's BMW Mini. Melanie who was 35 years old, also from Manchester died from her injuries.

The incident happened at 00:35 on Sunday 30th September 2007 when Miss LeeĆ's BMW Mini convertible was travelling southbound on the M61 near Brindle when she somehow lost control. Her car came to rest facing the wrong way in lane three and other road users stopped to help her. A Fiat Stilo saloon driven by Taylor was also travelling along lane three and then collided head-on with the mini at full speed and caused injuries to Miss Lee which proved fatal.

Sergeant Ian Milnes from the Motorway Unit said: "I am satisfied that the legal proceedings have now come to an end with this case as it has been a very difficult time for the family.

"I think this incident highlights the stupidity of drink driving, using your phone whilst at the wheel and speeding, all of which played a huge part in this collision. The terrible consequences of this crash should serve as a strong warning to people not to do this.

"I would like to offer my condolences to MelanieĆ's family who nine months on are still coming to terms with their devastating loss and now the court process is over I hope they can start to grieve for their loss.

Posted to the site on 13th July 2008