Southampton: Mechanic ignores traffic sign and hits biker

The 60-year-old biker also suffered cuts in the crash at the junction of Upper Brownhill Road, Lower Brownhill Road and Romsey[1] Road in Lordshill. Southampton[2] Magistrates' Court heard how Kevin Whitfield, 41, had ignored the sign and drove straight over the junction. The motorcyclist, riding a red Suzuki motorcycle, then ploughed into the side of the car.

Whitfield was driving a blue Volkswagen Touran at the time of the crash, which was at around 5pm on Friday, 19 May this year. He later pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless or inconsiderate driving. Prosecuting, Lauren Stone said the motorcyclist was rushed to hospital.

Thankfully, the man has since made a "rapid recovery", she confirmed. Despite his welcome recovery, the day still remains a blur for the victim. Ms Stone said the man "says he has zero recollection of the incident".

"[He] says he remembered being on the road and then waking up in hospital," she said. The court heard how there was no evidence of speeding and that it was "just simply a contravention of the traffic sign". Whitfield of Barons Mead, Southampton, works full time as a mechanic.

His solicitor, Jessica Murphy, said he is fit and able to do unpaid work. Judge Peter Greenfield ordered a pre-sentence report to be produced. This is expected to take four weeks to put together.

For this reason, sentencing was adjourned until 2pm on January 26, 2024 at Southampton Magistrates' Court.

Whitfield was released on unconditional bail.

The incident led to a police appeal for witnesses at the time.

References

1. ^ Romsey (www.dailyecho.co.uk)
2. ^ Southampton (www.dailyecho.co.uk)
3. ^ Motorcyclist seriously injured after crash on Southampton road (www.dailyecho.co.uk)