Motorcyclist jailed for killing grandfather at crossing in Thornton Cleveleys
Joseph Dawson sentenced to seven years for dangerous driving
A 22-year-old man has been sentenced to prison following a tragic incident in which his dangerous driving caused the death of a grandfather on a pedestrian crossing in Thornton Cleveleys.
Lee Towers, 82, was struck by Joseph Dawson's Honda CBR 500 while crossing Victoria Road West on 28th October 2024.
Towers was on a family holiday during half term, a tradition spanning 20 years.
Earlier that evening, he had enjoyed dinner with his family before the accident occurred.
Dawson, then 20, drove at speeds exceeding twice the legal limit and carried a pillion passenger without insurance.
He performed a high-speed overtake before reaching the pedestrian crossing where Towers was struck.
Towers sustained severe injuries and died in hospital on 6th November 2024.
Following the collision, Dawson lost control of his motorcycle, colliding with two parked cars.
He suffered a leg injury and was hospitalised.
Investigations revealed Dawson was accelerating to speeds between 48 and 55mph moments before the accident.
Dawson pleaded guilty at Preston Crown Court Sessions House and was sentenced on 3rd July to serve seven years and six months in prison.
He received a 10-year driving ban and must take an extended retest.
Victim Personal Statements from Towers' family underscored his profound impact on their lives and the community.
Lee's son remembered his father, "Dad had been on over 100 tours with the teams, spanning 56 years and was about to do another tour but instead, he was killed."
His daughter-in-law expressed her grief through memories of their cherished family tradition.
DS Helen Parkinson from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit emphasised the irreparable loss and warned against the perils of dangerous driving.
“Dawson knew the speed limits... Despite this, he still chose to ride dangerously, and that decision cost Lee his life.”
Parkinson urged drivers to be responsible and reminded those with information on dangerous driving to contact police.
Anyone witnessing dangerous driving is encouraged to call 101 or dial 999 for ongoing incidents.