Zoe Shapiro: Driver accused over teenager's death tells court how he was 'dazzled' by the sun
A van driver who hit and killed a teenager as she walked over a pedestrian crossing has told a jury he was “dazzled” by the sun.
Neel Balu was driving a Mercedes Sprinter van when it struck 17-year-old Zoe Shiparo causing traumatic head and neck injuries.
Giving evidence today he said he did not see Zoe or the red lights telling traffic to stop at the crossing in Birmingham Road, Great Barr.
He said: “As I approached the area there was vehicles ahead and maybe they were in my vision and I was obstructed because of that.
“I entered into the main face of that stretch and at that point when direct sunlight affected my vision, I deployed my wipers which smeared my windscreen and made it very difficult to see.
See also: Zoe Shapiro: Q3 Academy student killed 'when driver went through red light'
“I recall being dazzled and trying to grab my sun visor. I looked to my left. There was a sound and I had no idea.
“There was just a bright, white light and I couldn’t see past that point. I was squinting. I also knew there was a vehicle on my nearside.”
Balu added he heard a 'thud' and had been 'pretty sure' it was the noise of tools striking the inside of his van after he applied the brakes.
The crash took place on February 24, 2016.
Balu, 42, of Woodside Close, has admitted causing death by careless driving but denies causing death by dangerous driving.
The trial continues.
