Mobile-phone cabbie who hit couple walks free
A taxi driver who hit two elderly pedestrians while talking on a mobile phone has walked free from court.
Cabbie Abdul Salam ploughed into Marjorie and James Robinson on a light-controlled crossing in Sunderland city centre.
Mrs Robinson was left badly bruised by the impact and needed abrasions cleaned under general anaesthetic.
Her husband suffered an injury to his knee and a suspected broken rib.
Salam, of Eden House Road, Eden Vale, admitted dangerous driving.
Prosecutor Michael Graham told Newcastle Crown Court that Salam, 48, had picked up a fare in his eight-seater Mercedes in the city at about 2pm on April 27, last year.
Mr Graham added: "The two passengers in the car became concerned because the defendant was using his mobile phone during the course of the journey. One was about to speak to him because of her concerns."
The court heard before the worried customer could speak out Salam went through a red light and hit the couple.
Mr Graham said: "Mr and Mrs Robinson were struck by the defendant's vehicle.
"The passengers within the vehicle speak of the defendant dropping his phone immediately on collision taking place."
Salam was arrested but claimed in interview he had been speaking on a hands-free kit when the accident happened, though no such device was found inside the cab.
Alec Burns, defending, handed to the court a bundle of references to Salam's previous positive character.
Mr Burns said; "I have never seen so many references for a person.
"He is of exemplary good character with not even a point on his licence until this.
"He apologises through me for what happened and has shown genuine remorse and indeed distress over the injuries he caused to these unfortunate people."
Mr Burns said as a result of the offence Salam, who is sole provider for his wife and four children, has lost his career of 20 years.
Judge Guy Whitburn sentenced Salam to a community order for two years with 250 hours unpaid work and a four month curfew.
Salam was banned from driving for 12 months and was warned he must pass an extended test before he can get back behind the wheel.
source: http://www.sunderlandecho.com/news/
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