Motorist handed five-year-driving ban after admitting causing death of 43-year-old man

A motorist has been banned from driving for five years after he admitted causing the death of a 43-year-old man through careless driving.

Dale Groves, 30, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on May 16, where he pleaded guilty to causing the death of Gareth Davies, from Ebbw Vale.

On April 13, 2023, Groves, of Alfred Street, Penydarren, Merthyr Tydfil, was driving a white Ford Ka along Fochriw Road in Pant y Waun, when he crashed into Mr Davies’ black Renault Clio.

Mr Davies died at the scene of the crash.

Along with a driving ban, Groves was handed a ten-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and ordered to do 250 hours of unpaid community work.

Groves will also be required to take an extended test when reapplying for his licence.

He had previously been found not guilty of causing death by dangerous driving at Newport Crown Court in March this year, but was sentenced after admitting the offence of causing death by careless driving.

Sergeant Shane Draper, of Gwent Police, said: “This is a tragic case that has resulted in the needless loss of a life.

“I would like to thank all those who assisted in our investigation and offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Gareth Davies.

“The driver of the Ford Ka did not drive to the required competent and careful driving standard and his poor decision-making to overtake at an inappropriate location has led to devastating consequences.”

Sgt Draper continued: “The importance of driving carefully at all times is never more poignant than in this case because careless driving ruins lives.

“This is a reminder to everyone who gets behind the wheel – your responsibility isn’t just to ensure your own safety, but the safety of everyone around you.”

This article was amended to better reflect that Groves had admitted causing death by careless driving, but had been cleared by a jury of a charge of causing death by dangerous driving.