A man who caused the death of a driver following a road traffic collision in Stanwix Bank in Carlisle has today been sentenced to prison today (10 December).
David Devoy, 54, of Knightswood, Sunderland, caused the death of 50-year-old Neil Errington of Carlisle in a crash which occurred on 2 May 2022.
The court heard how, on 5 April 2022, Devoy was the driver of a car involved in a single-vehicle collision on West Tower Street in Carlisle. Following this collision, Devoy surrendered his licence to the Police Constable attending the scene, as he had shown signs of having suffered a medical episode at the wheel prior to the collision.
The Police Constable then contacted the DVLA and, on 25 April 2022, Devoy’s license was officially revoked by the DVLA, who wrote to Devoy to inform him of such.
However, on 2 May 2022, Devoy collected a new BMW car from a dealership in Carlisle, driving away at 3.56pm. He did this after fraudulently applying for a new driving license.
At 4pm, Devoy was witnessed driving erratically on Scotland Road in Carlisle before colliding with the rear of a Fiat Punto several times. He was then seen to speed off.
At 4.02pm, Devoy’s BMW was involved in a second collision – this time a fatal collision.
Witnesses saw Devoy’s BMW approach Mr Errington’s Mercedes car, at times on the wrong side of the road, and speeding well in excess of the speed limit. Witnesses said Devoy made no attempt to brake or steer away from the Mercedes before colliding with the rear of the car, which was stationary at traffic lights.
Mr Errington suffered serious injuries and was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. He remained there in a critical condition but died on 12 May 2022.
The same Police Constable who attended Devoy’s crash on 5 April 2022, also attended the scene on 2 May 2022 and immediately recognised Devoy.
Devoy told police that he believed he had suffered a medical episode at the wheel, having suffered from epilepsy for many years. He said that he had taken his epilepsy medication on the morning of the crash on 2 May 2022.
He also stated in his police interview that he believed that his driving licence had been returned to him prior to the fatal collision.
A forensic collision investigation report concluded that Devoy’s vehicle was travelling at between 76mph and 81 mph at the point of impact with the Mercedes.
Devoy admitted causing death by dangerous driving, and two counts of fraud by false representation.
He was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison and disqualified from driving for 13 years and four months.
Detective Constable Claire Whatman of Cumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “David Devoy’s decision to go out and buy a new car, so soon after his previous collision and after having had his licence revoked by the DVLA, was reckless and selfish.
“Devoy’s driving on 2 May 2022 was dangerously out of control, and ultimately cost Neil Errington his life.
“Had Devoy taken his responsibilities as a driver more seriously after his previous medical episode at the wheel, and abided by the decision of the DVLA to revoke his license, Neil would still be with us today.
“Any driver who suffers from a medical condition or disability that could affect their driving must abide by doctor’s advice, and they must inform the DVLA. Guidance can be found here - https://www.gov.uk/driving-medical-conditions
“I would like to thank all those who provided information to assist the investigation, and to extend my deepest condolences on behalf of Cumbria Constabulary to Neil’s loved ones.”