Case Highlights Dangers Of Speed

Leading law firm Irwin Mitchell has called for police officers to be more aware of the dangers of high-speed driving as an officer was acquitted of causing death by dangerous driving at Leeds Crown Court today.

PC David Allen, 34, knocked down and killed Ian Hambrey, 49, from Denaby Main, Doncaster, whilst responding to a call out on 8 March 2009.

PC Allen was facing the prospect of a maximum prison sentence of 14 years if found guilty but has been cleared of the charge. He was also cleared of a charge of careless driving.

Jackie Ford, Mr Hambrey’s sister, from Conisbrough, said: “Losing Ian has had a devastating affect on all the family, but we hope that by highlighting his case we can help prevent other families having to go through the same thing.

“We accept that it is necessary for the emergency services to drive at high speeds and respond quickly to calls, however they must still make sure that their driving is safe and does not put others in danger.”

Caroline Mitchell, an associate solicitor with Irwin Mitchell representing Mr Hambrey’s family, said: “The family has suffered a great deal and they are relieved that they can now begin trying to put this ordeal behind them.

“Police officers must make sure they take great care while responding to call outs so as to not endanger the public, and we hope this case will highlight the dangers of driving at high-speeds so other families don’t find themselves in this awful situation.”