Man jailed after Weymouth crash that killed 94-year-old woman
The van driver failed to check his rear-view mirror, resulting in the death of Belinda Bentley.
Last updated 7th Dec 2024
A van driver who failed to check his rear-view camera before carrying out a manoeuvre causing a fatal collision in Weymouth has been jailed.
41-year-old Edgaras Kondratas, from Southampton, appeared at Winchester Crown Court to be sentenced on Friday after being found guilty at an earlier trial of causing death by driving without due care and consideration while over the specified limit for a controlled drug.
He was sentenced to three years in prison and disqualified from driving for three years following his release from prison.
94-year-old Belinda Bentley was crossing the road in Wyke Regis in May 2023 when a Mercedes Sprinter van, which was reversing, collided with her.
She died at the scene as a result of her injuries.
Kondratas failed a roadside impairment test and was arrested at the scene.
His blood sample found him to be 0.8 micrograms over the limit of THC – a psychoactive constituent of cannabis – at a concentration of 2.8 micrograms per litre of blood.
He stated in interview that he had checked his mirrors before reversing, but had not looked at his rear-view camera, which would have shown the victim behind his vehicle. The rear parking sensors on the van were also not in working order.
Following the sentencing hearing, Belinda's family said in a statement: “My mother, Belinda Bentley, was killed on a bright summer's day while walking, close to the home she had lived in for almost 30 years.
“The place she died is a popular walking route for children, families, dog walkers; a place that she, and Wyke Regis people of all ages, consider quiet and safe.
“I hope anyone reading this story is reminded when they are driving to always always take care, be constantly observant, and to allow for the unexpected, however quiet, and peaceful the road.
“My mum is missed, every day, by her family and her many friends, and her neighbours in Wooland Gardens.”
Police Constable Leanne Howes, of Dorset Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Team, said: “Edgaras Kondratas’ inconsiderate driving while over the specified drug limit has had devastating consequences, resulting in the death of a much-loved woman.
“This case is an example of how a careless omission to check a rear-view camera before carrying out a manoeuvre in a van can result in a tragic outcome.
“We remain committed to doing everything we can to ensure those who drive without due care and consideration while under the influence and flout road traffic laws are identified and brought before the courts.”