A Rugby man has been sentenced to prison after causing a fatal collision by driving against explicit medical advice, resulting in the death of one woman and serious injury to another.
Ignored Medical Warnings Led to Tragedy
Alan Charles Parish, 74, from Lodge Road in Rugby, was told by doctors not to drive and to inform the DVLA about his unfit medical condition. He failed to act on this crucial advice.
In August 2024, Parish suffered a medical episode while behind the wheel on Ashlawn Road, Rugby. His vehicle collided with another car, killing passenger Margeurite Thomas and seriously injuring the other vehicle's driver.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
At Birmingham Crown Court, Parish pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
On 12 November 2025, he was sentenced to four years and six months imprisonment for causing Ms Thomas's death. He received an additional two years and three months, to be served concurrently, for the serious injuries caused to the other driver.
The judge also imposed a driving ban of more than seven years.
Police Statement and Family Impact
Warwickshire Police confirmed Parish had disregarded medical instructions not to drive. Detective Constable Francine Brown stated: "Our thoughts are with the families affected. They have shown incredible strength, though we recognise that the sentence can never reflect the devastation caused."
This case highlights the severe consequences of ignoring medical driving restrictions and the legal obligation to report relevant health conditions to the DVLA.
