Biker's heart pierced by rib in crash - court

A driver who failed to give way at a junction almost killed a motorcyclist, police said.

Paul Brinkley, 61, of 20th Avenue, Hull, was travelling on the B1225 between Horncastle and Caistor on 14 April when his Renault Captur collided with a Suzuki motorbike.

Lincolnshire Magistrates' Court heard on Wednesday how the victim, a man also in his 60s, almost died when a piece of broken rib pierced his heart.

Brinkley, who pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless or inconsiderate driving, was ordered to complete 135 hours of unpaid work. He was also told to complete a rehabilitation activity and was disqualified from driving for 12 months.

In total, the biker suffered 18 broken ribs and a fractured arm.

An investigation by Lincolnshire Police showed the bike was travelling at about 40mph (64.4km/h), and that Brinkley had failed to give way at the junction.

Investigators said Brinkley should have been able to see the bike coming for approximately six to nine seconds before making the decision to pull out.

Speaking after the hearing, PC David Millican said these calculations demonstrate how critical seconds are when driving, and how a lapse in concentration can have "tragic consequences".

He added: “I urge every motorist to be mindful when pulling out. Wait until there’s a suitable gap, and take your time – not lives.”

PC Millican said it would likely take up to two years for the victim to make a full recovery.

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