Man avoids jail after causing death of woman by careless driving in Cumbria
21-year-old Simon Nicholson was also over the prescribed limit for cocaine at the time
Last updated 26th Mar 2026
A man has avoided jail after causing the death of a 72-year-old woman by careless driving in Cumbria.
21-year-old Simon Nicholson, of Meadley Place, Cleator Moor, was also over the prescribed limit for cocaine at the time of the collision.
The court heard how officers were called out to the A66 near Marron Bridge on Friday 22nd December 2023.
That was following reports of a collision between a Volkswagen Golf and a Suzuki Jimny.
An investigation found that Nicholson, who was driving the Golf, was travelling westbound on the A66 towards Workington when he crossed onto the eastbound carriageway and collided with the Suzuki.
Maureen Henley, 72, a passenger in the Suzuki, died that same day in hospital.
The driver of the Suzuki was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries, whilst three passengers in Nicholson's car suffered serious and minor injuries.
A drugs wipe and breath test was carried out and Nicholson tested negative.
A blood test however showed he was over the prescribed limit for cocaine.
Nicholson pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving whilst over the prescribed limit and two counts of causing serious injury by careless driving.
He received a two year sentence suspended for two years.
Detective Constable Caroline Middleton from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said, “This collision sadly resulted in the loss of life.
“There is no excuse for drug-driving and getting behind the wheel whilst unfit and this case highlights the tragic impacts it can have.
“Nicholson told officers at the scene he does not take drugs, however his consented blood test confirmed he was over the prescribed limit.
“In Interviews he also claimed the vehicle came onto his side of the road however physical evidence and witnesses found this was not true.”