Driver pleads guilty to causing fatality in Nottinghamshire

On March 4th 2023, Doreen Raynor was using her mobility scooter in Huntingdon Street, Nottingham city centre, when she was hit by an Audi driven by 31-year-old Rayner Middleton.

Raynor, aged 89, died after being rushed into hospital following the accident.

Middleton, of Nelson Road in Arnold, Nottinghamshire, was found to be under the influence of drugs at the time of the accident. Police tests showed that she had an excess of benzoylecgonine, which is a metabolite of cocaine, in her system at the time of the collision.

Middleton’s trial was due to start on Monday this week, but on the first day, she pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving. Her plea was accepted, and she must return to Nottingham Crown Court on 10th June for sentencing. The court has already issued an interim driving ban until the sentencing hearing.

Although driving without due care and attention, sometimes described simply as careless or inconsiderate driving, is a lesser offence than dangerous driving, it can still attract substantial sentences in court under certain circumstances. When careless driving results in fatality, the courts take this very seriously when deciding on a sentence.

If a driver has pleaded guilty to careless driving, solicitors experienced in similar cases can advise on possible sentences, and point out mitigating or aggravating factors that could affect the outcome of the case. If a driver accused of either dangerous or careless driving is unsure how to plead, expert solicitors can give sound guidance on how to proceed and get the best possible outcome to the case.