Driver to pay $5000 over cycle tourist death.

News item on 31st  May 2010 - Driver to pay $5000 over tourist death.

Ronald Cleeve, 67, was disqualified from driving for 12 months and ordered to pay $5000 reparation to the dead woman's family for emotional harm and suffering. He had pleaded guilty to a charge of careless driving causing death of Mia Susanne Pusch, a German cycle tourist, on 5th Jan 2010. See... http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/3757432/Driver-to-pay-5000-over-to...

Do others think like me that this penalty seems a little on the light side? The judge obviously thinks that life is cheap. I'm personally opposed to overly punitive action for minor misdemeanours, but this is a serious offence that requires a more appropriate sentence.

It sends a message that these people are free to continue their aggressive and bullying behaviour against those slower and smaller than themselves.

On a recent visit to the North Island I saw and heard of similar action by truck drivers as reported by Mia prior to her death. This suggests it is quite widespread.

Does anyone know if this sentence can be appealed by those other than the police? If so, we should consider taking that action ourselves.

Nigel