Man pulled from car which caught fire after collision

A young Ballycroy motorist who failed to stop at a crossroads has been fined.

Dylan Lynch of Drumslide pleaded guilty at Castlebar District Court to careless driving.

Sgt Conor McShane said Gardaí received a report of a two-car collision on April 19, 2022, at Annefield Cross, Hollymount.

The court heard the defendant was driving a 2007 Ford Fiesta travelling from Claremorris towards Headford and he failed to stop at a crossroads.

Sgt McShane said there were stop signs and warning signs but he accepted it is a “notorious junction”.

The defendant stated that he was not familiar with the road and it was his first time travelling on it.

The court heard Lynch’s vehicle collided with a Honda Civic driven by the injured party, Mary Egan, who was travelling from Ballinrobe towards Tuam.

The Honda Civic subsequently crashed into a residential wall.

An ambulance and fire brigade personnel attended the scene and Ms Egan suffered soft tissue injuries, Lynch, who was unconscious after the collision, had to be taken out quickly from the Ford Fiesta, which was on fire and both drivers were hospitalised.

A victim impact statement from Ms Egan outlined the “harrowing” experience.

Lynch has no previous convictions.

Solicitor Tom Walsh said his client had met the case very openly, completed the Pro Social driving course and had gained a lot of insight.

Judge Lydon heard the defendant is an apprentice pipe fitter and having a licence is essential for his profession.

Judge Fiona Lydon noted the Gardaí accepted it was a “miscalculation” by Lynch and she decided to use her discretion not to disqualify him.

She imposed a €750 fine with six months to pay.