A lorry driver, who allegedly smoked cannabis shortly before a horror crash in which his vehicle is alleged to have drifted into the opposite lane killing a 59-year-old Maldon motorist, has declined to give evidence today in his defence at Chelmsford Crown Court.
Zahid Mohammad, 35, of Strathmore Street, Leeds, denies causing the death of Robert Barnard, 59, of Goldhanger, by dangerous driving on 9 September 2011 and an alternative charge of causing death by careless driving while unfit through drugs.
He also pleads not guilty to possessing cannabis, found in a rucksack. Verdicts in the case are expected next week.
Prosecutors allege that Mohammad had smoked cannabis six to eight hours before - or even possibly in a layby on the A12 just 45 minutes before the crash. They claim the professional HGV driver had a relatively high cannabis reading in his blood.
In his closing speech to jurors, defence counsel Dean George said Mohammad, who had an impeccable driving, work and personal background, was devastated by the tragedy.
He said there was no evidence to suggest his driving was bad and there were three more severe 90 degree bends before this 60 degree one.
Mr George suggested Mr Barnard had "depressive factors in his life" at the time. The court has heard that police had to see off squatters from Mr Barnard's house on the day of the crash.
The trial continues
