81-year-old driver avoids jail after killing motorcyclist in collision

William Beckett, an 81-year-old driver from Vernham Dean, Hampshire, has been convicted of causing death by dangerous driving, following a collision with a motorcyclist on May 20, 2023.

Beckett has been given a suspended prison sentence, and suspended for 18 months, at York Crown Court. 

According to reports, the driver was also ordered to serve a six-month monitored curfew at his own home, complete 180 hours of unpaid work and was disqualified from driving for three years.

Beckett collided with 64-year-old Nick Gilroy after pulling out of a side road directly into the path of the motorcyclist.

Gilroy sustained various injuries before losing his life a few weeks later. Gilroy was known to be a travel writer from York, and was a keen motorcyclist having previously completed a tour of all 50 states in America.

Gilroy also spent time in the RAF before becoming a travel writer. 

Beckett denied causing death by dangerous driving, and suggested his view was impeded by cyclists.

However, according to the Metro, the judge at York Crown Court is believed to have labelled Beckett as ‘self-centred’ and ‘deceitful’.

Stephanie Palmer, Detective Constable of the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: 

“This tragic case demonstrates the devastating consequences that can occur when drivers fail to take proper care at junctions. The victim was an experienced motorcyclist who was riding lawfully and within the speed limit.

“We would urge all drivers to take extra time to look carefully for vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians, particularly when emerging from side roads and junctions. Taking those few extra moments to ensure it is safe can help prevent further tragedies on our roads.”

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