Man jailed for causing death of motorcyclist in Staffordshire
In a family tribute, Martin Barker has been described as a 'lover of music and art'
Last updated 12th Nov 2021
A man has been jailed for causing the death of a motorcyclist in Draycott in 2019.
Usman Mohammed Farooq, aged 36, of Supreme Street, Stoke-on-Trent, was found guilty of causing the death of 50-year-old Martin (Map) Barker after trial at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court last month.
The court heard how Mr Barker had been riding his Kawasaki motorcycle on Uttoxeter Road towards Blythe Bridge, on 11 January 2019, when Farooq pulled across his path, causing the initial collision.
A blue VW Golf that had been behind Mr Barker, tried to perform an emergency stop, however Mr Barker was found beneath this vehicle.
Mr Barker sustained serious injuries and died the following day at Royal Stoke University Hospital.
Farooq was sentenced to two years behind bars at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Thursday (11 November).
He was also handed a two-year driving ban to commence when he is released from prison, and will be required to take an extended re-test.
Following the sentencing Pc Matt Lovatt, of Staffordshire and West Midlands Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Farooq pulled out very quickly from the junction without looking properly for other traffic.
“He took a chance which sadly had deadly consequences.
“I would urge motorists to pay extra attention at junctions and to be patient.
“This was an avoidable collision.”
The family of Martin said: “Map was an avid motorcycle rider and had been all his life.
“He was a lover of music and art, he hated injustice.
“He was an amazing father - I won't say he was the best son brother or husband as I would not want take anything away from anyone else, however, for us he was our best and he always gave his best to us and anyone who knew him.
“We as a family are eternally grateful for having Map in our lives and have had the honour to have loved him.
“He will always be our best our Map.”