After years of growing concern over fatal road incidents in Birmingham, a serious ruling has finally been delivered in a tragic case involving Uber Eats driver Harinderpal Athwal.
Athwal, 41, struck and killed pedestrian Jatinder Verma on Soho Road, Handsworth, after falling asleep while driving his Vauxhall Corsa. The collision also severely injured Verma’s wife, Bandana, who remains wheelchair-bound months later. Following the crash, Athwal shockingly reversed over Jatinder’s body before fleeing the scene, only to be arrested later.
With a string of previous offences, including four convictions related to driving while impaired—two for alcohol and one for failing to provide a specimen—Athwal had recently been disqualified from driving just six days earlier. Despite this, he continued to drive, culminating in the fatal accident.
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Crown Court Judge Simon Drew KC recognized the severity of Athwal’s history and the danger he posed on the roads, considering a lifetime driving ban. While ultimately not imposed, Athwal received a lengthy 20-year disqualification starting from his release date, effectively barring him from driving until he is 68. This decision reflects the rare but necessary application of extended bans to protect public safety.
Judge Drew emphasized that driving is a privilege, not a right, and noted the challenge courts face balancing rehabilitation prospects with public protection. Athwal, a father of four, expressed remorse but will face the consequences of his actions for decades to come.
This ruling marks a significant moment in Birmingham’s ongoing battle against dangerous drivers and hit-and-run incidents, reinforcing the message that repeat offenders with fatal consequences must face substantial penalties.