Rosemarie Ozsko, 65, caused the death of an 80-year-old man in Wakefield because cuddly toys hanging from her rear-view mirror blocked her view. She struck John Nottingham after stopping at the junction of Waterton Road and Dewsbury Road, taking the left-hand lane as the lights changed to red.
As she drove through the light, she hit Mr Nottingham, who was crossing the road. She stayed at the scene to try and help, but Mr Nottingham died the next day.
Visibility 'significantly affected'
West Yorkshire Police investigators said the cuddly toys had a "significant effect" on her visibility. They said she would have had a clearer view of Mr Nottingham, who was described by his family as a much-loved husband, father and grandfather.
Ozsko admitted causing death by dangerous driving and was handed an eight-month sentence suspended for 12 months when she appeared at Leeds Crown Court on August 20. She was disqualified from driving for two years.
Police warning to drivers
Following the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Steve Suggitt, from West Yorkshire Police's major collision enquiry team, said: "This case highlights the importance of road safety, the highway code and the importance of keeping a windscreen clear to ensure drivers can see clearly.
"Items such as mobile phones and Sat Navs should not be placed where they can interfere with your ability to see the road and those around you. The tragic passing of Mr Nottingham should serve as a warning to other drivers, and our thoughts remain with his loved ones."
