Driver jailed over death of cyclist in A350 crash near Chippenham
A 64-year-old cyclist died after being hit on the A350 in January
A driver who caused the death of a cyclist in a crash near Chippenham has been jailed.
Ayan Kolah, 38, of Lowden, Chippenham, was sentenced yesterday (5 November) to five years and eight months in prison after pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving and failing to provide a specimen.
As well as the prison sentence, Kolah was disqualified from driving for seven years and 11 months.
The court heard how at about 5am on 20th January, 64-year-old Robert Jones, from Melksham, was cycling northbound on the A350 towards Lacock.
Kolah was driving a silver Vauxhall Astra on the same road.
Robert was wearing high-visibility clothing and had lights on his bike.
Kolah's car hit the back of the bike, and Robert was thrown into a grass verge.
A roadside breath test on Kolah gave a positive preliminary sample.
She also tested positive for cannabis on a drugs wipe.
A small amount of cannabis and a grinder were found in the car, alongside an open bottle of vodka.
Police said Kolah appeared erratic when officers arrived, was unsteady on her feet and there was a strong smell of alcohol.
She was arrested and taken to Melksham Custody, but failed to provide an evidential specimen.
PC James Howells, of the Roads Policing Unit, said:
"This was a tragic and wholly avoidable collision which has had devastating consequences for Robert's family and loved ones."
"Despite taking steps to ensure he was visible whilst out on his bike, Robert's life was cut short because of the careless actions of another road user."
"Every driver has a responsibility to remain fit to drive and to be fully alert behind the wheel. The circumstances of this case demonstrates the potentially catastrophic consequences when that responsibility is not upheld."
"Our thoughts remain with Robert's family at this difficult time. I hope this sentence provides them with some measure of closure as they continue to come to terms with their loss."
"We will continue to pursue those whose dangerous or careless actions on our roads put others at risk and result in serious injury or death."