Licence bid rejected
Fatal crash sentence upheld in NSW court
AN elderly driver who killed a 22-year-old motorcyclist has lost an appeal to have his licence reinstated.
Edwin Patrick Jessop, 89, was less than 2km from his home when he pulled in front of Dann Jenkins, without giving way, at the intersection of Couchy Creek and Numinbah Roads on the morning of October 24, 2016.
Jessop pleaded guilty in the Lismore Court last year to one charge of negligent driving occasioning death.
On December 11 he was convicted and received a nine-month suspended sentence and a three-year licence suspension.
This week in Lismore District Court Jessop’s appeal was heard.
During the hearing Barrister April Francis suggested Mr Jenkins was speeding.
The court also heard there “may have been poor visibility” caused by dappled shade.
Judge John North said Jessop appeared to be “heartfelt”, and noted his spotless driving record.
“I cannot get over the fact a young man, aged 22, lost his life in these circumstances,” he said.
“I have no choice other than to dismiss the appeal.”
Mr Jenkins’ parents, Sue and Gary said they were relieved.
“The only reason he didn’t get jail time was because of his age,” Ms Jenkins said.
“My son is no less dead because of his age.”
She has spent the past six months fighting for stricter testing for elderly drivers.
Medical reviews are required for drivers over 75 in NSW, and those aged 85-plus must pass a practical driving test every two years.
Ms Jenkins sits outside Bunnings at Tweed Heads South each Saturday from 11am-1pm to canvass for petition signatures. “I need to make sure this doesn’t happen to another family,” she said.
Ms Jenkins has requested a coronial inquest, but has not received a response.