Teen Driver Sentenced for Distracted Driving Crash That Injured Rugby Player
A young woman has been jailed after a shocking incident where she crashed her car into a teenager playing rugby, with the court attributing the collision to her being distracted while chatting to a friend. Lexi Dyas, 19, was sentenced to 18 months in prison and banned from driving for nearly three years following the serious injury she caused to Declan Mahoney, also 19, in Mountain Ash, South Wales.
Details of the Distracted Driving Incident
The crash occurred in July 2024 in a near-empty car park, where Dyas was driving her personalised Fiat 500 at what the judge described as excessive speed. According to court proceedings, Dyas lost concentration while engaged in a conversation with a passenger, leading her to swerve and hit Mahoney as he played with a ball. The impact sent Mahoney flying into the air, resulting in multiple fractures to his arm, leg, and finger, necessitating hospital treatment.
Prosecutor Andrew Davies stated that Dyas admitted in her police interview that the incident was an accident caused by her lack of focus. She claimed she had no grudge against Mahoney and believed he had moved away from her vehicle, only to realize too late that she had struck him. Despite her tearful appearance in court, the victim impact statement revealed that Mahoney feels Dyas showed no remorse and now struggles with daily activities, including anxiety about leaving his home.
Legal Consequences and Sentencing
Judge Recorder Christian Jowett emphasized the deliberate nature of Dyas's actions, noting she drove directly at Mahoney. Dyas pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, a charge that carries significant penalties. Her defense lawyer, Emma Harris, highlighted that Dyas, who had aspirations of becoming a nurse, feels terrible about the injuries inflicted. However, the judge's sentence reflects the severity of the offense, aiming to deter similar behavior on the roads.
This case underscores the dangers of distracted driving, particularly among young drivers. Authorities continue to warn against activities like using mobile phones or engaging in conversations that divert attention from the road, as they can lead to catastrophic outcomes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the legal and personal consequences of negligent driving practices.
