McBride receives community payback order for careless driving, resulting in cyclist’s death in Glasgow.
McBride admitted to causing Morton’s death and pled guilty to careless driving at Glasgow Sheriff Court. Sheriff Joan Kerr gave a community payback order instead of jail time. The sheriff described Mr. Morton as hardworking and someone who lived life to the fullest.
Sheriff Kerr noted Morton had many interests and much to look forward to. She added that people who knew him cherished him. She also stated that the court’s actions can’t fix the loss or ease the despair. Morton helped people both in life and death as an organ donor.
The sheriff banned McBride from driving for 20 months. Morton loved cycling and raced for 16 years. People knew him for his cycling, even in Majorca. He was cycling home from work after a night shift at the fish market when the accident occurred around 8:30 AM.
McBride was going to work in Rutherglen when she turned right at Fielden Street and Fielden Place. Prosecutor Susan Campbell explained that McBride didn’t see Morton and kept turning. Her car’s side hit Morton’s bike, and he was clipped into the pedals.
Morton crashed onto the car’s hood, and his bike tumbled along the car, landing on the road’s side. Morton hit the windshield and then landed on the roof, finally being thrown behind the car. A witness found McBride very upset after this.
Paramedics took Morton to the hospital, but he died three days after the crash. An autopsy revealed the cause of death was a brain injury from cardiac arrest. This occurred outside the hospital and was due to a neck injury from the accident.
McBride first told police she didn’t see him and blamed the sun. However, an investigation determined the sun wasn’t a factor. The report said McBride misjudged Morton’s speed and failed to see him as he approached, turning across his path.
Tributes poured in after Morton’s death; Scottish Cycling called him a legend. Vito Romagna remembered him fondly on Facebook, saying Morton always had time to talk about cycling, gin, or even fish. Dooley’s Cycles said they would miss him.
Gillian Ross KC spoke for McBride, saying it was a tragic case and knew nothing could ease the pain. McBride understands the consequences and knew punishment was due, Ross stated.