Norwich Taxi Driver's 40-Year Career Ends After Serious Moped Crash

A 61-year-old Norwich taxi driver has been banned from the roads for a year after causing a serious accident with a moped rider. The crash, which occurred on March 28, left the rider seriously injured and ended the taxi driver’s 40-year career.

Details of the Crash

Anthony Gridlestone, from Edgehill Close in Norwich, was driving his taxi when he failed to stop at a mini roundabout. This error caused him to hit the moped rider, who was crossing Drayton Road near Wensum Park. The collision threw the rider onto the bonnet of the taxi.

The rider suffered fractures to his ankle and collarbone. He has since undergone several surgeries as part of his recovery. Gridlestone later admitted to causing the rider serious injury by driving without due care and attention.

Court Proceedings and Sentence

At Norwich Magistrates' Court, Gridlestone pleaded guilty to the charges. He had been a taxi driver since 1985 and had no prior incidents on record. However, the court's decision to ban him from driving for 12 months and fine him £1,251 marked a significant turn in his long career.

The crash was described as the result of an "unsafe manoeuvre" by Gridlestone, who had pulled out from St Martins Road and hit the moped side-on. Prosecutor Sally Harris confirmed that the moped rider had the right of way.

Defense and Impact

Gridlestone's lawyer, David Foulkes, explained that the driver had experienced a momentary lapse in concentration, leading to the accident. Foulkes emphasized that there was no suggestion of impairment, as Gridlestone was breath-tested at the scene and passed the test.

Gridlestone expressed regret over the crash, acknowledging the impact it had on the rider’s life. Losing his license will also end his 40-year career as a taxi driver, a job that had been central to his life.

Comments on the Case

The court's ruling reflects the seriousness of the crash, and the driving ban has marked a significant personal and professional consequence for Gridlestone. His lengthy career in taxi driving has come to a sudden end due to a simple but costly mistake.