Lorry driver faces jail over death of hero Pc

But Leeds Crown Court heard yesterday there is still an issue as to why Andrew Abernethy’s truck left the road near Wakefield, causing the collision which killed Pc Mark Goodlad who was hailed as a hero at his funeral at Wakefield Cathedral. Abernethy claimed he was distracted by a sudden pain in one eye and his counsel Gary Woodhall told the court he was subsequently found to have a scratch to the cornea.

But the prosecution has suggested the crash showed classic signs of being “sleep-related” in the way the vehicle drifted off the road, although investigations had found no evidence Abernethy had worked excessive hours or had slept badly.

Judge Scott Wolstenholme said he would consider whether a hearing was needed on that issue. He agreed to adjourn for a report until November 22 but warned Abernethy: “As your counsel readily acknowledges, it is going to be the court’s duty to pass a custodial sentence.”

Abernethy, 45, of Rembrandt Walk in Oldham, admitted causing the death of Pc Goodlad, 41, by dangerous driving on October 24 last year.

His articulated lorry struck the officer’s police vehicle and a car which were both stationary on the hard shoulder of the southbound carriageway. Pc Goodlad was caught between the vehicles.

His widow, Helen, was in court for the case.