Taxi driver hit elderly couple while on the phone
A taxi driver hit an elderly couple on a pedestrian crossing after talking on his mobile phone, a court heard.
Abdul Salam, 48, had passengers in his Mercedes and had just run a red light when he struck the pedestrians, on 27 April last year.
The couple were taken to hospital and one was found to have broken ribs caused by the collision.
Salam, of Eden House Road in Sunderland, admitted dangerous driving at Newcastle Crown Court yesterday.
In his defence, Alec Burns said: "He has just lost his livelihood."
Judge Guy Whitburn QC said: "He should not have been on the phone. It's very, very serious."
Adjourning the case for pre-sentence reports, Judge Whitburn QC said: "You have sensibly pleaded guilty to this matter, but it is a very serious offence.
"I warn you of the circumstances where you actually hit two pedestrians you must realise a custodial sentence cannot be ruled out."
The case was adjourned until March 12.
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