Police have urged drivers to take extra care at junctions after a motorist was sentenced for causing the death of a much-loved York-based motorcyclist.
Prosecution and defence collision experts agreed that Nick Gilroy, 64, was visible for nine seconds before William Beckett, 81, pulled out of a side road into his path and crashed into him, causing fatal injuries in May 2023.
Mr Gilroy was riding within the speed limit and had right of way.
Mr Gilroy’s sister Brenda told York Crown Court last month: “He was the victim of a totally unnecessary crash.”
Nick Gilroy and his motorcycle (Image: Submitted)
Detective Constable Stephanie Palmer, of North Yorkshire Police's serious collision investigation unit, said: “This tragic case demonstrates the devastating consequences that can occur when drivers fail to take proper care at junctions.
“The victim was an experienced motorcyclist who was riding lawfully and within the speed limit.
“We would urge all drivers to take extra time to look carefully for vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians, particularly when emerging from side roads and junctions.
“Taking those few extra moments to ensure it is safe can help prevent further tragedies on our roads.”
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Beckett is subject to a 12-hour curfew from 6pm to 6am for six months and must do 180 hours’ unpaid work as part of a 12-month prison sentence suspended for 18 months.
He is also banned from driving for three years and must take an extended driving test before driving unsupervised again.
The 81-year-old of Back Lane, Vernham Dean, Hampshire, had denied a charge of causing Mr Gilroy’s death by careless driving on the B6265 in Aldborough, south of Boroughbridge, on May 20, 2023, but was convicted by a jury.