A speeding driver who fled the scene of a collision that left a man with life threatening head injuries has been jailed for three years
Gary Tomlinson,49 of Mossack Avenue, Wythenshawe, was jailed after pleading guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of a collision.
He has also been disqualified from driving for six and a half years.
The court heard how last October Gary Tomlinson was travelling away from Manchester City Centre along Rochdale Road, Collyhurst. At the same time, two men were also travelling in a BMW along the same road, in the same direction.
When the BMW approached the junction of Eggington Street the driver began to turn left. At the same time, and travelling at faster speeds than most vehicles on the road, Tomlinson began to undertake the BMW causing him to collide into the rear side of the BMW.
The collision caused the BMW to spin out of control, leaving the driver unconscious having suffered a significant head injury. The passenger was also left semi-unconscious in the front passenger seat.
Tomlinson then fled the scene on foot, leaving passing members of the public and road users to come to the aid of the two men in the BMW. They were taken to hospital where it was determined the driver had suffered life threatening head injuries.
Thankfully the passenger only suffered minor injuries.
Following extensive enquiries officers were able to locate Tomlinson the following morning and he was subsequently arrested and then later charged.
Police Constable Phill Collingwood of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Tomlinson’s driving was completely reckless and showed absolute disregard for the lives of those travelling along that road at the time.
“Not only did Tomlinson’s deplorable actions leave a man suffering from a major head trauma but he then cowardly fled the scene. It’s a miracle that nobody else was seriously injured or died as a result of the collision and I extend my thanks to all the other drivers who stopped to call emergency services and remained at the scene.
“Thankfully we’ve been able to secure a custodial sentence today and I hope this provides a small sense of justice to the families of those who have been impacted by the horrendous incident.
“I hope it also serves as a warning to those who feel they can recklessly drive along our roads. One stupid decision can change or cost a life, and as seen today, we will ensure you face the actions of your consequences.”
