Overtaking driver caused three vehicle crash in Portlaoise

A driver who overtook a lorry and caused a three vehicle crash in Portlaoise has been banned from driving. 

Karabo Radabe (29) of 15 Parnell Crescent, Knockmay, Portlaoise, admitted dangerous driving on the Mountmellick Road, Portlaoise, on April 20, 2022 and having no insurance at Lyster Square, Portlaoise, on February 17 last. 

Garda Ciaran Corry said the defendant was the driver of a 06D registered red Opel Astra which overtook a lorry and caused a three vehicle crash on the Mountmellick Road at 8.50pm on April 20, 2022. 

“He was overtaking a truck and collided with another vehicle, going into the ditch,” said Garda Corry. He said there were no injuries and there was an outstanding intoxicated driving offence. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the accused man was found to have no insurance for a 10DL registered car in Lyster Square on February 17, 2025. He said the car was seized. The defendant has nine previous convictions, Sgt Kirby told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was a South African man who has lived in Ireland for 20 years. He said the man  had “a significant alcohol issue” but has attended counselling and appeared to be doing better now.

Judge Andrew Cody asked if any compensation had been paid to any of the motorists. 

Mr Fitzgerald said he didn’t believe there had been any injuries as a result of the collision. 

Garda Corry said the incident would have been referred to the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland (MIBI).  

“For the rest of us to pay it,” Judge Cody noted. 

He fined the man a total of €1,000 and banned him from driving for four years.