Buckinghamshire man jailed for dangerous driving on A41
Collision leaves ambulance worker with life-changing injuries
A man has been sentenced to prison following a devastating collision on the A41 near Woodham, Buckinghamshire.
Alexander Simmons, 26, of Portway Road, Twyford, received a sentence of three years and three months at Aylesbury Crown Court on 27th January.
Simmons pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop, and possession of a controlled Class B drug.
The incident occurred on 19th September last year, as Simmons drove a white Mercedes C63 AMG on the wrong side of the A41 road, colliding with a red Citroen Cactus travelling towards Aylesbury.
Suzanne 'Suzy' Pettifor, the driver of the Citroen, who is 56, suffered serious, life-changing injuries.
Simmons fled the scene and was arrested on 20th September.
He was also disqualified from driving for six years and four months, with a requirement to pass an extended test to regain his licence.
Detective Sergeant Lyndsey Blackaby described Simmons' driving as reckless with a complete disregard for Pettifor's life.
"This was an appalling example of dangerous driving carried out at a grossly excessive speed," DS Blackaby said.
"Simmons’ decision to overtake in such a reckless manner, and then flee the scene, showed a complete disregard for the life he had just shattered."
The Pettifor family released a statement on the impact of the incident on their lives.
"We could have lost her. Seeing our precious mum, who was so full of life, struggle with multiple, crippling injuries is beyond devastating," the family said.
"Every day brings new challenges, her road to recovery will be long and uncertain."
The family also noted Suzy's dedication to her role as an Emergency Care Assistant with South Central Ambulance Service.
"Our focus now is entirely on supporting Suzy and helping her rebuild her life," they added.
The family expressed their gratitude for the support they have received and have requested privacy during this difficult time.