Recovery Driver Sentenced After Runaway Car Incident Injured Bystander
A vehicle recovery driver received a suspended prison sentence after failing to secure a vehicle that rolled down a hill, injuring a bystander who attempted to help.
Sean Baker, a driver for GRS Recovery Bournemouth, was sentenced to 14 weeks in prison, suspended for one year, at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday for an incident that occurred on March 22, 2024. The court heard that the two-tonne Range Rover rolled down Exeter Crescent during a recovery operation, with Baker becoming trapped by a rear wheel.
CCTV footage showed the vehicle moving down the street. Kai Dransfield, who was on a break from his job at a nearby restaurant, witnessed Baker trapped and attempted to assist. In his effort to help, Dransfield was struck by the vehicle and pulled underneath it. The car rolled over his legs, causing severe injuries including multiple broken bones and spinal fractures, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
More than two years after the incident, Dransfield continues to experience chronic pain and has difficulty walking.
An HSE investigation found that Baker had initially attached a winch to the Range Rover, which could have prevented the vehicle from rolling. However, Baker later removed the winch, jacked up the vehicle, and placed skates under the rear wheels. Without chocks or breakaway cables securing the wheels, the vehicle began to roll backward when it was lowered onto the skates.
The investigation concluded that Baker failed to exercise reasonable care for his own safety and the safety of others by not adhering to established recovery procedures. The HSE also determined that his actions fell below the expected standard for a competent and experienced recovery driver. Baker pleaded guilty to breaching Section 7 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
HSE inspector Alexander Ashen stated after the sentencing that Baker's failure to properly secure the heavy vehicle on a steep hill was a "fundamental error." Ashen highlighted the busy town center location, noting the presence of pedestrians, motorcyclists, and other vehicles. He added that Baker's failings exposed those nearby to risk and resulted in life-changing injuries for a member of the public who attempted to help.