Driver convicted after using phone behind wheel

Detectives have issued a stark warning about the dangers of using a mobile phone after a motorist was jailed yesterday (Thursday 8 August).

On 2 July this year, Matthew Bates pled guilty to one count of causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drugs at Leicester Crown Court.

Just before 10am on 30 January 2022, police were called to the B4114 Coventry Road in Sapcote following a report that Bates’ Audi Q5 had collided with a pushbike before coming to rest in a hedgerow.

Colin Banks, 64, was taken to hospital but died as a result of his injuries that afternoon. Bates, 37, was arrested at the scene and told officers interview that he could not give a reason why he had not seen Mr Banks.

Officers found a mobile phone in the footwell and when it was examined, it was established there had been a Bluetooth connection between the device and car up until the point the collision had occurred. It was also found the X app, a folder and a music app had been opened and closed between 9.53am and the moment of the collision, indicating the phone had been used.

In his first interview, Bates said another occupant of the car was using the phone. In a second interview, he answered ‘no comment’ to all questions asked – including about the phone being in use – but was subsequently charged.

Yesterday Bates was sentenced to three years and nine months’ imprisonment. He was also disqualified from driving for five years.

Detective Constable Paul Hicks, from the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) was the officer in the case. He said: “During the investigation, it became evident that Bates was most likely distracted by trying to use his phone while driving. Benzoylecgonine – the main metabolite of cocaine – was also in his system.

“The fact that there were two young children in the car at the time – when his focus was not on the road ahead – is alarming.

“Sadly, Mr Banks’ family are still having to live with the consequences of his actions, but I hope this case serves as a warning to others who think it’s okay to use a phone or other electronic device behind the wheel.

“While you think you’re not doing anything wrong, it goes to show that your actions could have fatal consequences.”