Tipton driver jailed for 11 years after fatal head-on collision
Court hands lengthy sentence after passenger's death
Last updated 16th Jul 2026
A driver has been sentenced to 11 years in prison following a head-on collision in Tipton that resulted in the death of his passenger.
The crash occurred on the evening of 3rd January 2024 on Alexandra Road when the speeding Mercedes veered onto the wrong side of the road, colliding head-on with a van.
Deepak Nayyar, aged 43, was taken to hospital with severe injuries and sadly passed away on 1st February 2024.
The driver of the van sustained serious leg injuries and the Mercedes driver, Richard Strickland, also suffered serious head and leg injuries.
Strickland, aged 47, residing in Jonah Drive, Tipton, was charged with causing death by dangerous driving and serious injury by dangerous driving.
He admitted these offences at an earlier hearing, leading to his sentence at Wolverhampton Crown Court on 6th July.
In tribute to Deepak, his family said: “Deepak had the whole world to experience, he had everything to live for.
“Deepak was a loud, funny jolly person and kept all the family going.
“He was lovely, lively bubbly person. He always had a listening ear for all his loved ones and friends, he was loved by everyone. When Deepak laughed, everyone laughed with him.”
Detective Sergeant Julie Lyman, Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Strickland showed a complete disregard for everyone’s safety and a man sadly lost his life.
“Deepak was clearly well loved by his family and friends and our thoughts remain with them.”
This case serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of adhering to road safety standards to prevent further loss of life.