A driver did not see a car in front and took evasive action into the path of an oncoming car, causing the tragic death of a loving and caring mum. Emma Parkes pleaded guilty on Tuesday (February 21) to causing the death by careless driving of 73-year-old Yvonne Roberts in Budby Road, Cuckney, Newark.
A tearful Parkes, 25, of Cherry Tree Close, North Hykeham, Lincoln, was bailed until March 3 for sentencing at Nottingham Magistrates' Court and was handed an interim driving ban. But the court heard the sad details of the collision which claimed the life of Yvonne Roberts, who was in a red Kira Rio, on April 16, last year.
Parkes, in a black Nissan Duke, with her partner in the passenger seat, had approached a stationary vehicle driven by a witness, the court was told, who had stopped to make a right turn into Hazel Gap Barn. The witness was indicating to turn right and had her brake lights displayed - but the defendant failed to notice that car, said Kelly Shooter, prosecuting.
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Parkes took "evasive action" and entered the path of the oncoming car driven by Ms Roberts. None of the vehicles involved had defects and seatbelts were likely to have been worn by all parties.
There was no suggestion the defendant was using a mobile device, or that she was under the influence or drink or drugs. Miss Shooter described what happened as a "momentary lapse" - but could not say what that lapse was.
"It is clear she did not see the car that stopped in front of her and had to take evasive action," Miss Shooter told District Judge Sunil Khanna. The incident was caught on CCTV which showed Parkes's vehicle "showed no sign of slowing down".
Ms Roberts was pronounced dead at the scene of multiple head injuries as a result of the collision. An inquest was opened and adjourned into her death last May.
Her son had described her as a "friend to so many" previously shared his heartbreak. Paying tribute on behalf of the 73-year-old from Sheffield's family, her son said: "Yvonne was my mum, a loving woman and a friend to so many who was committed to helping others, particularly the elderly and those in need. She worked tirelessly to better the lives of those she helped.
"Her death has left many people heartbroken and wondering how and why this tragic accident has happened. Her loss will be felt through time and her memory will resonate in the minds and hearts of those she touched."
Parkes had a clear line of sight and failed to notice the stationary vehicle up ahead. Parkes, who was badly injured, could not remember much about the incident.
Judge Khanna adjourned for a pre-sentence report to be prepared, adding: "It's a serious matter. I'm not going to rush sentence in this case".
Addressing, Parkes, he added: "You have entered a guilty plea to a serious matter. Before I sentence you, I need to know more about you and about the offence and why it occurred. I ask for a pre-sentence report. I appreciate you have not been in trouble before".
Detective Constable Liah Lane, of Nottinghamshire Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, had said: "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Yvonne's family at this extremely difficult time. Losing a loved one in such tragic circumstances is something we know has a huge impact on families and we are ensuring specialist officers continue to work with the family and offer them support".
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