A PENSIONER who fell asleep at the wheel of his car resulting in a crash which killed a Stratford woman has escaped being jailed.
Norman Svenson was a handed a 20 month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, after he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving, when he appeared at Warwick Crown Court.
The 71-year-old was heading home to Nuneaton from Surrey on May 7 last year. He was driving his Jeep Compass when the fatal smash happened on the Fosse Way just outside Leamington.
A Kia Venga being driven by 72-year-old Edwin Lilly, with his 70-year-old wife Elaine in the front passenger seat, was heading towards Stratford.
Near to the island next to the Warwickshire Exhibition Centre, the Jeep drifted across the road and ploughed head-on into the Kia
All three people suffered serious injuries and were rushed to the University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire – but Mrs Lilly passed away from her injuries three days later.
Svenson was arrested but when interviewed told police he could not recall what had happened.
Anjuli Shergill, senior prosecutor with West Midlands Crown Prosecution Service, said: “This prosecution highlights the consequences of a driver falling asleep at the wheel of a car. Norman Svenson did exactly that and as a result, his car crossed the carriageway and into the path of Mr Lilly’s vehicle.
“All the occupants of the car sustained serious injuries. Three days later, Mrs Lilly sadly passed away from her injuries.
“Motorists are reminded that if they are feeling tired or unwell, they should avoid getting behind the wheel of a vehicle as if they do, they are not only putting themselves in danger, but other road users too.
