Road Accident Lawyers Support Family As Mercedes Driver Jailed For Nine-And-A-Half Years

The wife and sons of a delivery driver killed when a car crashed into him after trying to overtake have spoken out on their ‘devastating’ loss.

Hadi Sezgin, 62, sustained fatal injuries when his Citroen C1 car was hit by a silver Mercedes in Bexleyheath in November 2022. He was working as a pizza delivery driver for Pizza Hut at the time.

Expert lawyers instructed to investigate what happened

Following the crash, Hadi’s wife and sons instructed expert road accident lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to support them and investigate what happened.

At a sentencing hearing at Woolwich Crown Court on 28 June, the driver of the Mercedes was jailed for nine years and six months.  He previously pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

Rita Alsoof is a specialist serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Hadi’s loved ones.

Expert Opinion

“It’s been an incredibly tough time for Hadi’s family and his tragic death continues to have a profound effect on them.

“While nothing can make up for the pain and loss they feel, we welcome the sentencing and hope it poses as a stark reminder of the consequences families can be left facing as a result of the actions of others.

“We’ll continue to support Hadi’s loved ones at this distressing time, and also urge road users to take care at all times.” Rita Alsoof

The crash happened on 12 November 2022, when the Mercedes driver clipped the rear of Hadi’s C1 when pulling back in after attempting to overtake.

Sons pay tribute to 'amazing dad'

Hadi’s sons Ayhan, 26 and Erman, 35 said: “It’s really difficult to put into words how we’ve felt every day since losing dad.  He was loved by everyone and was always around to help if you needed him.

“Due to mum being disabled, dad was the main breadwinner and took responsibility of the household.  We were a very close family, but being at home now has a very different feel and it’s deeply sad not to smell one of his signature dishes filling the house.

“He was an amazing dad and his advice and support were invaluable to the whole family.  His death was so sudden and unexpected, and is something I don’t think we’ll ever get over.

“We’d do anything to bring dad back but that’s not possible.  All we can do now is move forward as best we can, while holding on to the cherished memories we have.

“We also hope that by speaking out, we can make others aware of how important it is to drive carefully and stay safe on the roads.  Our lives were changed in a split second, and we wouldn’t wish that on anyone.”

Driver charged with causing death while uninsured

The driver, a man in his 30s, was also charged with causing death while uninsured.  As well as a nine-and-a-half year custodial sentence, of which he must serve two-thirds in prison, he was disqualified from driving for a total of 12 years and three months.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting people affected by road collisions at our dedicated road traffic accident section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.