A truck driver involved in a video call while driving crashed into a stationary car on the highway, resulting in the death of a father of two. The driver, Zvonko Tomisa, from Vidovec, Croatia, was sentenced to 11 years in jail for causing the fatal accident.
Tomisa was driving a MAN lorry on the M20 motorway when he collided with a Nissan Qashqai driven by Arran McManus, 36, between junctions 9 and 8 at Lenham. Despite the traffic being at a standstill due to an earlier incident causing a speed restriction, Tomisa failed to brake in time, hitting McManus’ vehicle at around 48mph.
During the crash, Tomisa was on a call with his wife, which distracted him for about 28 seconds before the collision. Phone records showed a series of calls and messages exchanged before the accident, indicating a lack of focus on driving.
The court revealed that Tomisa had been in contact with various individuals, including discussions about his delivery route and attempts to reach his wife. The fatal crash occurred shortly after his wife video called him.
Arran McManus, a devoted father living in Ashford, was on his way to work when the tragic incident took his life. He left behind his partner and two children.
Following the crash, Tomisa tested negative for drugs and alcohol. Initially denying the charge of dangerous driving, he later pleaded guilty before the trial.
Judge Catherine Moore emphasized that Tomisa’s prolonged phone use while driving was a major factor in the accident, stating that engaging in distracting activities on the phone while operating a large vehicle was unacceptable. The court heard emotional statements from McManus’ fiancée and parents, highlighting the deep loss felt by his loved ones.
The tragic collision serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of distracted driving and the importance of prioritizing road safety.
