A woman who suffered horrific burns in a car crash has admitted responsibility for the death of a motorcyclist.

Slavika Mileva, 30, of Oakridge Avenue, Radlett, pleaded guilty to causing the death of 27 year old former St Albans School pupil Joe Paul by careless driving at St Albans Crown Court on Friday (9).

She was driving her black Mercedes SLK in Elstree when she collided with Mr Paul’s red Honda motorcycle in June last year.

They both had to be dragged from their burning vehicles by a 33 year old man from Watford, who also sustained injuries.

Mr Paul, who had a degree in Mechanical Engineering and worked for Transport for London with hopes of becoming a chartered engineer, later died.

Ms Mileva, was treated by a plastic surgeon at Stoke Mandeville Hospital for the injuries she received to her face and body.

Judge Andrew Bright QC adjourned the hearing for probation and medical reports to be prepared. He said: “It is unlikely that there will be an immediate custodial sentence. Other forms of disposal need to be considered.”

In a tribute, Joe’s mum, Lynne, said: “Joe had an interest in everything and travel in particular.”

His dad, Aidan, added that Joe and his younger brother David, both keen skiers, took regular trips abroad, including to Chile and Valmorel in France.

Aidan said: “One summer, Joe and I also visited and successfully climbed Mont Pelvoux.”

While at Leeds University, Joe was recognised on the Faculty of Engineering’s Dean’s List, a prestigious award that recognises academic excellence and is given to only the top five per cent of students.

Despite moving to London at the age of 24, Joe travelled to St Albans up to three times a week, where he would catch up with his family over a meal.

His family said that Joe had many good friends, the majority of whom have links to St Albans, and he was living in an apartment with a group of friends he had made from school.

Joe’s parents said he had a great sense of humour, adding: “He was a real live wire and someone who had a real lust for life. He was exuberant in everything he did. We’ve all got so many fantastic memories of him.”

Ms Mileva is due to be sentenced on November 27.