A man has been jailed after getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol killing one man, and seriously injuring the woman with whom he was on a date.
The Old Bailey heard how Toader had ignored pleas not to drive after downing several shots of cherry brandy following an argument with his girlfriend. He forced other motorists to swerve out of his way as he sped for five miles at up to 64mph through a 30mph zone before ploughing into Ronald Cardenas, 32, and Ruxandra Zavoianu, 28 on Willesden High Road. They had met just a few days earlier on the dating app Tinder, and were waiting to cross the road. Mr Cardenas was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mr Cardenas, from Ecuador, had just become a father and was working on Carnaby Street before starting his masters degree. Ms Zavoianu was in a coma for a month following the drink-driving incident and said in a statement: “Eight months later, I’m still not back to normal. I’m still fighting.”
Upon sentencing Judge Philip Katz QC said that Ms Zavoianu was “lucky to be alive” and “could easily have died too.
“The harm you have caused is profound. One death and another life massively damaged.
“Your culpability is at the highest level,” he said.
Trader pleaded guilty to causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving. As he was sentenced he apologised to his victims and in a prepared statement said he took “full responsibility” before saying “I wish I could turn back time.”
He was sentenced to serve six years and eight months in jail, and also banned from driving for five years.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
