Driver hit and killed man, 80, after her view was blocked by stuffed toys

A driver who caused the death of an 80-year-old when her view was blocked by stuffed toys in her car has been spared jail.

Rosemarie Ozsko, 65, collided with John Nottingham near a set of traffic lights in Wakefield, having driven through as they changed from amber to red.

After colliding with Mr Nottingham, she pulled over to assist until paramedics arrived, but the ‘much-loved’ pensioner died in hospital from his injuries the following day.

Investigators say the stuffed toys 'significantly' affected Ozsko's view before she hit Mr Nottingham.

Ozsko’s vehicle was found to have two small stuffed toys hanging from the rear view mirror, which investigators said ‘significantly’ impeded her view of Mr Nottingham as he crossed the road in March, 2024.

Mr Nottingham’s family described him as a much-loved husband, father, grandfather, and family member by his relatives and is missed by all who knew him.

The stuffed toys which blocked Ozsko's view before she hit Mr Nottingham.

Ozsko, from Wakefield, admitted causing death by careless driving at a court hearing in July, and was sentenced today (August 20).

She was given an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months at Leeds Crown Court, along with a two-year disqualification from driving.

John Nottingham was described as a 'much-loved husband, father, grandfather and family member'.

Detective Sergeant Steve Suggitt, from West Yorkshire Police, said: “This case highlights the importance of road safety, the highway code and the importance of keeping a windscreen clear to ensure drivers can see clearly. “Items such as mobile phones and Sat Navs should not be placed where they can interfere with your ability to see the road and those around you.

“The tragic passing of Mr Nottingham should serve as a warning to other drivers, and our thoughts remain with his loved ones.”