A driver who ‘aquaplaned’ on M4 in Wiltshire during Storm Babet has been jailed for killing a mum and daughter.
Firas Zeineddine was driving at more than 90mph when he lost control of his Tesla Model Y, and struck a HGV’s steering axel.
As a result, the lorry crashed into and then fell onto a Volkswagen T-Roc – which had been involved in a minor crash. It also narrowly missed a National Highways officer.
Mum and daughter Cheryl Woods, 61, and Sarha Smith, 40, from Caerphilly, were inside the T-Roc. Both sustained significant injuries and died at the scene.
Zeineddine pleaded guilty to two counts of death by careless driving. He was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment at Swindon Crown Court today (Monday).
Investigating officer DC Sean Williams, from the Serious Collision Investigation Team, said: “This is an utterly tragic and needless incident which has seen two women lose their lives.
“Zeineddine’s speeding in the conditions was completely reckless and he admitted having impaired vision due to the amount of mist and spray that was coming off the road.
“Despite this, data from his Tesla showed his speed was in excess of 90mph. Once his vehicle started to aquaplane in the standing water, due to the speed he was driving, he lost complete control.”
He continued: “I’m pleased he has pleaded guilty which has prevented the victims’ family from having to relive the details through a trial.
“Cheryl and Sarha’s deaths sadly provide a clear illustration of why it is vital to drive to the conditions, no matter where you are.
“Any mistake or unforeseen incident, particularly at the speeds Zeineddine was driving, can have fatal consequences.”
