An 82-year-old man from Aigburth has received a suspended prison sentence after causing life-changing injuries to a woman at a motorway service station. David Cornick reversed his car into 62-year-old Linda Whythe, crushing her between two vehicles after mistakenly pressing the accelerator instead of the brake.
The incident, which occurred at Knutsford services on the M6, left Mrs. Whythe with catastrophic injuries that will require her to use a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Chester Crown Court heard the details of the case before sentencing Cornick for causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
Key Takeaways
- David Cornick, 82, from Aigburth, was sentenced to 15 months in prison, suspended for 12 months.
- The incident happened on September 26, 2023, at Knutsford services on the M6.
- The victim, Linda Whythe, 62, suffered multiple fractures and permanent nerve damage, leaving her with a lifelong need for a wheelchair.
- Cornick pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and received a two-year driving ban.
Details of the Incident
The court was told that the collision took place at approximately 1:30 pm on September 26, 2023. David Cornick was travelling from Liverpool to Derbyshire with his wife and had stopped at Knutsford services to charge his Nissan Leaf electric car.
While waiting for a charging point to become available, he attempted to reverse his vehicle out of a parking space. According to the prosecution, Cornick lost control of the car, which then struck Mrs. Whythe, who was standing at the rear of her own VW Golf.
Prosecutor Mr. Harvey Appleby explained that Mrs. Whythe was crushed between the two vehicles. Emergency services were called to the scene immediately. Officers conducted preliminary tests on Cornick, which he passed without issue. No drugs or alcohol were found in his system. He stated he had intended to press the brake but his foot slipped onto the accelerator.
Life-Altering Injuries for Victim
The consequences for Linda Whythe have been devastating. She was rushed to hospital with multiple severe injuries, including a crushed pelvis with an open fracture, a fractured and dislocated left thighbone, and a significant T-shaped laceration to her abdomen.
Mrs. Whythe required extensive medical treatment, including up to seven blood transfusions and a four-month hospital stay, part of which was in an intensive care unit. The court heard she now suffers from permanent nerve damage.
Impact on Mobility
An orthopaedics expert concluded that while Mrs. Whythe may eventually be able to walk short distances of two to three kilometres, she will never regain the ability to walk five or 10 kilometres. Activities such as hiking and dancing, which she previously enjoyed, are no longer possible.
In a victim personal statement read to the court, Mrs. Whythe described the profound and permanent impact on her daily life.
“I cannot stand up for more than 20 minutes. I can walk for 500 metres without aid but anything further requires a wheelchair due to the pain and swelling... This accident has forever changed my life. I will never be able to walk long distances, hike, dance, run or participate in other activities I used to take for granted. The wheelchair will be a permanent feature. I appreciate I survived the accident but each day is a struggle.”
Court Sentencing and Mitigation
At Chester Crown Court, David Cornick pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, a charge that carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison. His defence counsel, Miss Lisa Judge, submitted nine character references on his behalf, including two from retired GPs.
Miss Judge described her client as potentially “one of the nicest men in the world” and argued that a self-imposed sentence of giving up driving would have a significant impact on him.
Judge Steven Everett acknowledged Cornick's background and remorse while delivering the sentence. He told Cornick: “For whatever reason you failed to control that vehicle as you should have done. It reversed far too fast and the vehicle went out of control.”
The Judge's Remarks
Addressing Cornick, Judge Everett said: “The injuries cannot be understated - you know that and I know you regret it bitterly - but they were catastrophic and life changing and listening to her personal statement - she is late middle aged and had a lot to look forward to - all of that has been taken away from her.”
The judge also noted Cornick's positive character and contributions to society.
“You have had a completely trouble-free and excellent life. You have worked hard. You have a fantastic work record, you are now retired and you are still doing charitable work in the local park area... There is a clear regret and remorse. If you could turn the clock back I recognise that you would do that.”
Ultimately, Cornick received a 15-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months. He was also banned from driving for two years and must pass an extended driving test to regain his licence. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £300 in court costs. The court heard he was willing to give up driving permanently following the incident.