Michael Webb was four times the drug drive limit when he lost control of his Skoda Octavia while attempting to undertake a BMW at almost double the speed limit, according to reports. The car tore in two when it crashed into a tree, killing Peter Webb and Ben. Newcastle Crown Court heard Michael Webb was likely driving at about 73mph on the 40mph limit road.
Emma Dowling, prosecuting, said Michael Webb applied emergency braking, probably realising the BMW driver was indicating to move into the inside lane. The impact killed Peter Webb, who was in the front passenger seat wearing a seatbelt. The specific drugs found in Michael Webb's system at the time of the crash have not been disclosed.
No sentence will ever be long enough.
Ashleigh Webb, Peter's wife and Ben's mother, tearfully told the court that no sentence will ever be long enough. She described her horror when police officers arrived at her home to say her husband had been in a crash, and realising their son was with him. "At the top of the stairs I turned cold when the realisation came over me that Ben was with Peter," she said.
Ashleigh Webb said Michael Webb's driving had always been an accident waiting to happen. She added that she had not received an apology from Michael Webb. Michael Webb pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving.
At the top of the stairs I turned cold when the realisation came over me that Ben was with Peter.