Monday, July 7, 2014

"Sarnia woman fined in death of cyclist Gerald Plain"

Life of 64 year old cyclist worth only $2500 fine for careless driving....... WTF?

At a minimum, it should have been a loss of driving privileges for life and at least 1 year behind bars!

Cyclists, beware of the crazy drivers around here!

 

From the Sarnia Observer......


http://www.theobserver.ca/2014/07/07/sarnia-woman-fined-in-death-of-cyclist-gerald-plain


Sarnia woman fined in death of cyclist Gerald Plain 

Observer Staff


The driver involved in the Nov. 19, 2012 fatal collision with cyclist Gerald Plain has been fined $2,500 for careless driving.
Christine McEwen, 39, of Sarnia, pleaded guilty to the charge Monday in Sarnia court.
McEwen had originally been charged with criminal negligence, but based on evidence heard during an earlier preliminary hearing it was determined there was no prospect of a conviction.
The fine was not a reflection of Plain's life or the loss suffered by his family, said Justice Deborah Austin.
Plain died Nov. 19 from injuries sustained in a collision with a vehicle on LaSalle Line in St. Clair Township.
He was riding his bicycle at the time, in the correct lane and wearing an orange reflective vest.
His death is one of several incidents that has spurred local cyclists to advocate for better conditions on Sarnia-Lambton roadways.
The 64-year-old was affectionately known as "Shuggie Otis" and regularly cycled to his daughter's house, always cautious, with a reputation as someone who followed the rules of the road.
A victim impact statement described Plain as "careful Gerry" due to the care he took in riding his bike. The statement by his sister said he would forever be in the minds of his family.