Vehicle rear-ended after Limerick motorist was ‘distracted’ by a ‘distressed’ cyclist
A MOTORIST’S car rear-ended another vehicle as he was “distracted” by a cyclist leaning against a sign post and looking distressed, Newcastle West Court heard.
Joseph Doyle, aged 52, of Rathavanig, Ballybunion pleaded guilty to careless driving on the N69 at Kilteery on April 30, 2022. Inspector Gearoid Thompson said gardai attended the scene.
“Everybody was conscious and speaking. It was a miscalculation by Mr Doyle. A car was turning right and he rear-ended it. It was a momentary lapse of concentration. Speed was not a factor,” said Insp Thompson, who added that the injuries suffered by those involved was limited to bruising.
“Nobody was seriously discommoded,” said Insp Thompson.
Enda O’Connor, solicitor for Mr Doyle, said his client was “momentarily distracted”.
“There was a cyclist leaning against a signpost. He looked distressed. Unfortunately he rear-ended a car stopped in front of him,” said Mr O’Connor, who stressed the importance of Mr Doyle’s driving licence to him.
The solicitor asked Judge Carol Anne Coolican to exercise her discretion and not disqualify Mr Doyle.
Judge Coolican fined Mr Doyle €400.