A refuse collector has been handed a suspended prison sentence after a tragic incident that claimed the life of a teenage cyclist. The 15-year-old victim was riding his bicycle on the pavement when he was struck by the council bin lorry in a devastating collision.
The court heard how the experienced HGV driver failed to notice the schoolboy before making a left turn, resulting in the fatal accident. Despite emergency services rushing to the scene, the teenager succumbed to his injuries.
Judge Sarah Johnston described the case as a "tragic accident" rather than dangerous driving, noting the driver's immediate remorse and otherwise clean driving record. The defendant was given a 12-month suspended sentence and banned from driving for 12 months.
The victim's family expressed their heartbreak outside the court, stating that no sentence could bring back their beloved son. They urged for improved safety measures for cyclists and better awareness among HGV drivers.
Local authorities have announced a review of road safety protocols following this incident, particularly focusing on interactions between large vehicles and vulnerable road users.
