Two fined over crash involving JCB towing slurry tanker
© North Yorkshire Police Two drivers have been fined following a serious road crash between a car and a JCB Fastrac transporting 15,000 litres of slurry.
North Yorkshire Police said it was pure luck that no one was killed in the accident – and it highlighted the need for people to ensure their vehicles are maintained at all times.
Both drivers appeared at Harrogate Magistrates’ Court earlier this week, where they pleaded guilty to different offences.
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Police said a passenger in the VW Beetle had to be cut from the wreckage and needed hospital treatment following a collision on the A19 at Escrick in December.
The Beetle driver was turning right and failed to see a JCB Fastrac towing a slurry tanker, which was travelling in the opposite direction, the court was told.
© North Yorkshire Police
Firefighters had to slice the roof off the Beetle to remove the passenger, which police described as a “long and complicated” rescue operation.
The police investigation with help from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency found the tanker had two defective tyres and all four brakes produced significantly less force than was legally required.
JCB driver David Coning, 53, of Tollerton, near York, pleaded guilty to using a trailer in a dangerous condition. His driving licence was endorsed with three penalty points and he was ordered to pay £574 in fines and costs.
VW driver Matthew Parker, 21, of Haxby, pleaded guilty to careless driving. His licence was endorsed with six penalty points and he was ordered to pay £334 in fines and costs.
‘Check vehicle condition’
Commenting on the case, a police spokesman said: “It’s fortunate nobody was killed in this crash… and it could have been prevented.
“Please remember you are responsible for the condition of your vehicle and anything you tow, so check it regularly and never neglect maintenance.
“It’s also a reminder to pay attention at all times when driving, regardless of how familiar you are with the road.”