Teenage driver in court after Offaly collision

AN 18-year-old driver had a “momentary lapse of concentration” and struck another vehicle near Birr, Tullamore District Court heard.

A fine of €200 was imposed on Ruari Spain, Boveen, Brosna, Birr after he pleaded guilty to careless driving at Ballyegan, Birr on December 17 last. Mr Spain had turned 18 the previous month.

Sergeant Richard Thornton told the court Mr Spain was driving a 2002 Toyota Hilux and when he failed to observe a vehicle making a left turn he struck it, driving it onto a hedge.

Sergeant Thornton said the accused had no previous convictions.

Paul Noctor, BL, defending, said his instructions were that the other vehicle did not have an indicator on but Mr Spain nonetheless realised the incident should not have happened.

It was a momentary lapse in concentration by him and he was taking the matter very seriously.

“He's a young man starting out in a career and driving was his passion,” said Mr Noctor.

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The defendant was now going to college and working on a farm and he relied heavily on his licence for transport.

Judge Valerie Corcoran noted that Mr Spain had insurance and a full licence and had pleaded at earliest opportunity.

It was unfortunate that it was a road traffic matter for him and he will receive penalty points “which is out of my control”.

She convicted him of careless driving and said the fine must be paid within six months.