Motorist goes on trial over sofa biker death

Peterborough Crown Court hears how motorcyclist died after swerving to avoid sofa lying in road

A MOTORIST has gone on trial accused of causing the death of a biker after a sofa fell off the back of his pick-up truck and led to a collision.

Last year Visordown reported the news (see link at bottom of page) about a motorcyclist that was killed while avoiding a sofa lying in the road.

Peterborough Crown Court heard that Anthony Barnes (34) was driving along the A1139 Fletton Parkway in Peterborough when the piece of furniture he was transporting toppled into the road.

Shortly after motorcyclist Darren Wildman smashed into the back of Barnes' vehicle after swerving to avoid the sofa lying in the dual carriageway. He died as a result of his injuries

Yesterday, the Court heard allegations Barnes was responsible for the 37-year-old's death because his failure to properly secure the load amounted to dangerous driving

Barnes, of Danegeld Place, Stamford, denies the charge of causing death by dangerous driving.

The trial continues.