Lorry Driver Sentenced for Fatal Collision Caused by Distracted Driving

A tragic incident on May 17, 2022, led to the death of Danny Aitchison when he was struck by a lorry driven by Neil Platt. Platt, aged 43, was distracted by his mobile phone while operating a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) on the M58 in Skelmersdale, Lancashire. The collision resulted in Aitchison’s Hyundai Kona being crushed between Platt’s lorry and another vehicle, leading to his death.

Witnesses reported that Aitchison’s car was stationary at the end of a traffic queue when the impact occurred shortly before 13:00. Video footage revealed that Platt had been scrolling through various social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), moments before the crash. He was travelling at 54 mph and braked only 35 meters before the collision, which proved fatal.

In a heartfelt statement, Aitchison’s 17-year-old daughter, Ella, expressed her grief: “You didn’t mean to kill my dad and all that died alongside him, but you must have known your actions could have killed someone. We have lost a beacon of light in our family.” Ella was only 15 at the time of the incident, highlighting the profound impact of this tragedy on her and her family.

Aitchison’s partner, Kerry, recounted the harrowing moment she realized something was wrong. She was on the phone with him when he stopped responding, initially thinking his battery had died. “I feel angry he has lost his life in such a way. He was just coming home to me and the kids. Their hero has gone,” she said in court.

The emotional toll of Aitchison’s death reverberated throughout his family. His mother, Jeanette Aitchison, described him as a constant presence in their lives, stating, “The loss of Danny has had a significant impact on me and my family. Quite simply, I feel devastated.” She criticized Platt’s decision to use his phone while driving, calling it “utterly crazy.”

Platt, from Bootle, pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. During the proceedings at Preston Crown Court, it was revealed that he had been distracted for a significant portion of his journey from Dumfries, Scotland. Judge Ian Unsworth KC condemned Platt’s actions, stating, “Your arrogant and selfish attitude to driving was quite breathtaking.” He noted that Platt had prioritized social media over the safety of others on the road.

The judge highlighted the dangers of distracted driving, stating that Platt’s behavior demonstrated a complete disregard for road safety. “You were a multi-tonne accident waiting to happen,” he remarked. Platt was sentenced to 10 years in prison and disqualified from driving for 13 years and 8 months, after which he will be required to pass an extended driving test.

In his defense, Platt’s lawyer acknowledged the devastating consequences of distracted driving. He emphasized that even experienced drivers must maintain their focus on the road to prevent tragic outcomes.

This case serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with distracted driving and the irreversible consequences that can follow. The Aitchison family’s loss is a profound example of how a moment of inattention can lead to devastating tragedy.