A motorist who killed a Pizza Hut delivery driver in a hit-and-run crash while attempting a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre has been jailed for almost ten years.
Alan Richards, 38, pulled out into oncoming traffic and clipped the back of victim Hadi Sezgin’s Citroen C1 as he attempted to complete the overtaking move, on Bedonwell Road in Bexleyheath on November 12, 2022.
He was uninsured on the Mercedes he was driving and did not stop at the scene of the crash.
At Woolwich crown court last month, Richards was sentenced to nine and a half years in prison and banned from driving for more than 12 years.
Mr Sezgin’s family has now spoken out following the sentencing hearing about the “devastating” loss to their family.
“We hope that by speaking out, we can make others aware of how important it is to drive carefully and stay safe on the roads”, said sons Ayhan, 26 and Erman, 35, in a joint statement.
“Our lives were changed in a split second, and we wouldn’t wish that on anyone.”
Mr Sezgin was working as a Pizza Hut delivery driver at the time of his death.
“It’s really difficult to put into words how we’ve felt every day since losing dad”, said his sons.
“He was loved by everyone and was always around to help if you needed him.
“Due to mum being disabled, dad was the main breadwinner and took responsibility of the household. We were a very close family, but being at home now has a very different feel and it’s deeply sad not to smell one of his signature dishes filling the house.
“He was an amazing dad and his advice and support were invaluable to the whole family. His death was so sudden and unexpected, and is something I don’t think we’ll ever get over.
“We’d do anything to bring dad back but that’s not possible. All we can do now is move forward as best we can, while holding on to the cherished memories we have.”
Richards, who lives in Wenvoe Avenue in Belvedere, Kent, admitted causing death by dangerous driving, causing death while uninured, and failing to stop at the scene of an accident.
Two charges of aggravated vehicle taking were left to lie on file.
Rita Alsoof, a specialist serious injury lawyer at law firm Irwin Mitchell whorepresented Mr Sezgin’s family, said after the sentencing hearing: “It’s beenan incredibly tough time for Hadi’s family and his tragic death continues tohave a profound effect on them.
“While nothing can make up for the pain and loss they feel, we welcome the sentencing and hope it poses as a stark reminder of the consequences families can be left facing as a result of the actions of others.”
