Man jailed for causing lorry driver's death in M27 crash
36-year-old Michal Kaminski from Salisbury died in the three-vehicle collision in February last year
Last updated 21st Jan 2025
A man from West Sussex has been jailed for nine years and nine months for causing the death of a lorry driver from Salisbury in a fatal collision on the M27 in Hampshire.
36-year-old Michal Kaminski died when the vehicle he was driving collided with two cars at junction five of the motorway, near Southampton Airport, on February 21st last year.
Police said a Mercedes lorry, Nissan Juke and Volkswagen Polo were involved in the crash at just before 12.30pm.
Mr Kaminski's lorry struck the metal support of the overhead gantry and burst into flames several hours after the crash.
That led to the westbound carriageway of the motorway being closed for two days.
38-year-old Ross Alex Neiland from Littlehampton was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing death while uninsured, causing death while driving without a valid licence, and failing to allow a specimen of blood to be analysed.
Southampton Crown Court heard Neiland was travelling at 90mph in treacherous conditions when the collision happened.
He attempted to flee the scene afterwards and was apprehended by members of the public on the grass verge at the side of the motorway.
The court heard Neiland was also in possession of stolen goods when he was arrested, including meat, cheese and laundry detergent, which had been shoplifted earlier that day.
He pleaded guilty to the charges in December and was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on Tuesday (January 21st).
Neiland has also been disqualified from driving for a period of time following his release from prison.
Phil Hanham QPM, lead investigating officer for this case, said: "Michal was innocently going about his daily work when his life was cruelly cut short that day by the selfish actions of another driver.
"The dash cam footage of Neiland speeding, despite the heavy rain, is extremely shocking to view. He clearly had absolutely no regard for the safety of himself, his passengers and other road users.
"I would like to pay tribute to the family and friends of Michal who have remained so dignified throughout the investigation and court proceedings.
"These scenes are incredibly difficult and upsetting for the members of the emergency services that are called to them while doing their jobs. The motorists who were nearby when the collision happened were extremely patient and understanding and I want to thank the public for their support during the two days it took to get the carriageway back open.
"I would also like to thank all the staff from all the emergency services and partners who worked so closely to bring this complex investigation to a close. In particular I must thank DC Ian Stevens and PC Rob Giles for their excellent investigation and case presentation, which left Neiland with no other option than to plead guilty to all offences.
"This case highlights that driving dangerously on our roads has terrible consequences that may lead to someone's death, and you being sent to prison for many years."