Incident Overview: On Saturday, January 13, Tobias Smith, a 19-year-old motorist, struck and caused the death of 50-year-old Elizabeth Davies as she crossed the road.

Details of the Crash: It was reported that while crossing, Mrs. Davies looked right but not left before stepping into the path of Smith's Mini, which was driving at 35mph in a 30mph zone. The prosecution acknowledged that he could not have avoided the collision even if he had been adhering to the speed limit.

Tragically, Mrs. Davies was taken to hospital but succumbed to her injuries the following day. Smith was later sentenced by Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court to a 12-month community order, including a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement.

Events Leading to the Accident: Prosecutor Howard Searle noted that Mrs. Davies had been at a family event at Trentham Gardens and left at 3:30 PM due to a hip injury, eventually taking a taxi to Stoke Station for her train to Derby. With train services disrupted, she switched to a replacement bus service.

After disembarking the coach on Uttoxeter Road, she stood for a moment before crossing the road. Smith, driving a well-maintained 20-year-old Mini from Wetley Rocks to Stafford, was behind the wheel at the time of the accident.

Collision Analysis: Evidence presented indicated that while Mrs. Davies stood by the side of the road for about 10 seconds before crossing, she did not wear her glasses, which would have affected her ability to see the approaching vehicle clearly. The collision investigator noted that the car was visible to her for 11.5 seconds prior to impact, but she would not have been visible to Smith due to the glare from the coach lights.

Impact on Families: In a poignant victim statement, Mrs. Davies’ sister, Jane Wilshaw, conveyed the family's devastation and highlighted Mrs. Davies's excitement about becoming a grandmother after moving to Derby for a fresh start.

Smith, who resides on Cheadle Road in Cheddleton, admitted to causing death by careless driving. His defence counsel, Maria Brennan, argued for a non-custodial sentence, pointing out that Smith was marginally above the speed limit amidst flowing traffic.

Brennan contended: "This incident was not a case of reckless driving; the accident investigator stated that Mrs. Davies would have been concealed from Smith’s view as he approached."

She emphasized that factors like Mrs. Davies not wearing glasses and the presence of alcohol may have contributed to the tragic outcome. Further, she highlighted Smith’s psychological trauma post-incident, indicating he seldom leaves his room or socializes.

Judge's Sentencing Remarks: Judge Sally Hancox remarked on the loss of Mrs. Davies, describing her as "much-loved and much-missed," and noted that Smith had accepted his responsibility. She addressed him, saying: "You and your family have been devastated by these events... It was a moment in time, albeit a devastating one."

Following the verdict, Smith received a 12-month driving ban. Judge Hancox emphasized the complexity of such cases and acknowledged the dignity shown by all parties involved.