Motorist in the Midlands fined €750 after overtaking manoeuvre led to collision

A motorist who lost control of his car as he attempted an overtaking manoeuvre in wet conditions was fined €750 for driving without due care and attention.

John Killane (38) of 24 Annaly Park, Longford was prosecuted in respect of a collision on Sunday, October 9, 2022 at Clontumpher, Ballinalee, Longford.

Sgt Conor McShane said the defendant was the driver of Ford Fiesta on that date. Sgt McShane described conditions as “poor” as it had been a day of heavy rain.

The defendant attempted to overtake another car and lost control, colliding with the vehicle he was attempting to pass.

Both vehicles ended in a ditch and although there was considerable damage to the cars no one was injured.

Sgt McShane handed in photographs of the damaged vehicles to the court. Observing the photographs Judge Bernadette Owens said it was “at the higher end” of the offence.

Solicitor Frank Gearty said his client had been fully insured and had no previous convictions.

Mr Gearty said Mr Killane attempted to overtake in “extremely wet conditions” and accepted he should not have done it.

Mr Gearty told the court his client is originally from Longford, but lived in Manchester for many years before returning home. The solicitor said Mr Killane had an “otherwise good record”.

Having reviewed the evidence Judge Bernadette Owns registered a conviction for driving without due care and attention and imposed a fine of €750.