Teenager cleared of Longridge death crash charge

3:04pm Friday 9th May 2008

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A TEENAGER has been cleared of causing the death of a close friend by dangerous driving.

But Adam Catterall, 19, admitted careless driving before the fatal accident in Longridge, and was fined £1,000 and banned from driving for 18 months.

Matthew Hesketh, 18, of Preston, died after the car collided with a taxi in Preston Road.

The Judge at Preston Crown Court, Heather Lloyd, told Catterall: "Whatever the sentence, nothing will ever possibly or could ever possibly satisfy the grief and anger of Matthew's family.

"Their loss is unimaginable. Matthew was much loved and had hope and anticipation for the future.

"As a result of what you did that night Matthew died. You got off lightly. You will have your health and your life in front of you," she added.

Catterall, of Mill Lane, Goosnargh, had denied causing death by dangerous driving in February last year.

Judge Lloyd had earlier told the jury they would not hear a sadder case.

The trial heard that the car skidded onto the opposite side of the road and hit a taxi.

Catterall told the court that he overtook two vehicles, but had pulled back into his own lane before a bend.

He said the car then began to slide to the left and he tried to correct it.

The court also heard reports that the stretch of road was below par and showing signs of wear and tear.

The jury reached its not guilty verdict after considering the evidence for almost five and a half hours.

Mr Simon Newell, defending, said Catterall was a student working part-time and he was of previous good character.