Lorry Driver Jailed After Killing Horse in ‘Shocking’ Highway Collision
A lorry driver has been jailed after causing a major collision on the M1 in July 2023 in which a horse was killed. Stourbridge resident Nicholas Cole was handed a 42-week prison sentence on May 9, after he failed to notice a lane closure and smashed into a broken-down horsebox. “Despite a red X gantry sign and the fact that Highways officers had parked a vehicle a short distance behind the horsebox which displayed flashing amber and red lights, Cole failed to move,” Northamptonshire Police said[1].
Dashcam footage from the incident shows the lorry hurtling towards the stationary vehicles, before swerving at the last minute and clipping the highway patrol vehicle. The lorry then overturns and crashes into the horsebox. Cole pleaded guilty to dangerous driving.
As well as his jail term, he was banned from driving for 21 months.
“This was a shocking collision,” Sgt Richard Hill said, adding “It’s a stark example of how important it is to keep your focus on the road when you’re driving.” Credit: Northamptonshire Police via Storyful