Laois motorist left scene of accident near tourist attraction

A driver who crashed into the back of another car near the Rock of Dunamase and then gave his details to the other motorist before leaving the scene was found guilty of driving without insurance at Portlaoise District Court.

Garda Sgt JJ Kirby told the court that on 28 September last year, a man came into Portlaoise Garda Station and reported that his car had been rear-ended while he was driving in the Rock of Dunamase area. He said the other driver handed over his contact details and then left.

He said gardaí later spoke with the other driver, Peter Graham (26), Limetree Avenue, Kilminchy, Portlaoise, who failed to produce his insurance details.

The defendant pleaded guilty to the offence of driving while uninsured.

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“Who paid for the damage that was caused to the car,” asked Judge Susan Fay?

Defence barrister Andrew Dunne said that his client said that he “hadn’t heard from the injured party since the incident and did not know the cost of the damage.”

Mr Dunne said: “At the time he appreciates that he should not have been driving on that day. It’s lucky that it was only a minor collision.”

“There was an accident here,” said Judge Fay. “If he wishes me to leave him without a disqualification, he should do a pro-social driving course. If he complies with that, I will convict and fine him €300. If he doesn’t comply, I will convict, disqualify him from driving for two years and fine him €500.”

She then went on to adjourn the case to the 26 June sitting of the court.

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