Motorist struck cyclist at crossroads
The defendant received a four-month suspended prison sentence at Castlebar District Court.
A motorist who struck a cyclist when pulling out from a crossroads has received a suspended prison sentence.
James Gerard Patterson, Carrick, Ballinlough, Co Roscommon pleaded guilty at Castlebar District Court to driving without insurance and careless driving on separate dates.
The court heard that Patterson’s vehicle was stopped at Bridge Street, Ballyhaunis on April 18, 2022. He had no insurance.
On November 22, 2022, Patterson’s vehicle was at Bothar Dubh, Claremorris on the N17. He pulled out onto the road from a crossroads and failed to see a cyclist before he collided with him.
The cyclist did not suffer any serious injuries but the court was told he continues to experience pain. The damage to his racing bike was estimated at €2,000.
A victim impact statement was not proffered.
Patterson has a previous conviction for driving without insurance.
Solicitor Evan O’Dwyer said his client is a farmer who intends to transfer the farm to his son because of the driving disqualification that is coming his way. He said Patter suffers from depression.
Judge Fiona Lydon imposed a four-year driving ban and a four-month suspended prison sentence on the no insurance charge. The judge fined Patterson €800 for careless driving.
