Nicola Newell (42), of Forest Road, was in a queue of stationary traffic at Mapperley, Nottingham, when she opened the door of her black Audi into the path of the motorbike at around 8.50am on 27th September last year.

The impact sent former postmaster and university lecturer Adrian Bolton (57), of Mapperley Plains –– who was riding his motorcycle at a steady pace past standing vehicles –– into the path of oncoming traffic. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Newell was given eight penalty points and a £600 fine after admitting driving without due care and attention.
Nottingham magistrates were told on Wednesday how the incident happened after Newell realised she had left her handbag in the boot of her car and had opened her door to retrieve it.

Said Maria Talbot, in mitigation: "This is a tragic accident that has impacted on all concerned, it was a split second decision that led to this incident. She remembers looking in her mirror but saw nothing, whether the bike was in her blindspot she can't say.

"She remembers a small bang and a bigger bang and then black, she was clearly in a state of shock."

The chairman of the bench said they had accepted her show of remorse, saying: "We'd like to say how deeply tragic this incident is for all concerned, Miss Newell expresses deep remorse and we would like to extend our sympathies to the family of the deceased."

Newell was also ordered to pay a £15 victim surcharge and costs of £35.