Driver overtook garda car at roundabout
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A MIDLANDS man was convicted of careless driving after overtaking a garda car on a roundabout approach.
Robert Corcoran (36), Mount Lucas, Daingean, Co Offaly pleaded not guilty to the charge of careless driving, after he overtook an unmarked garda car on hatched markings in Carbury, Co Kildare on 18 March, 2024.
Garda Chris Lynch from Delvin Garda Station in Co Westmeath told Naas District Court that he was on his way home along the R402, having been in Kildare making official enquiries about a stolen car.
Garda Lynch said: “I observed a vehicle behind me, a Volkswagen Tiguan and it was tailgating very close.
“We came to a roundabout and the vehicle behind me performed a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre on the hatched markings, so I activated the lights to indicate I was a squad car.”
“Did he give any excuse?” asked Sgt Dave Hanrahan.
“He was very polite and apologised,” said Garda Lynch.
Defending solicitor Dave Powderly said: “Traffic noticeably condenses approaching a roundabout, and that’s why he was so close.”
Mr Powderly put to the garda: “If his car was so close you wouldn’t have been able to see his headlight.”
Garda Lynch replied: “Not so. He was in an SUV, his lights were very high. The lights drew my attention, is what I said. If I had to stop suddenly he would’ve rear-ended me."
“Judge, my client contends the garda had indicated to turn left, prompting the overtaking manoeuvre,” said Mr Powderly.
“He shouldn’t have been driving on hatched markings,” replied the garda.
Mr Powderly then made the point that there is different legislation for hatched markings than for careless driving, but the garda replied: “It’s the same - €80 and three points.”
Mr Corcoran took the stand and Mr Powderly asked him had he tailgated.
“I didn’t think so,” he replied. “He had his indicator on, to turn left for Broadford."
“Did you go into the hatched markings?” asked Mr Powderly.
“I had my own lane – maybe a foot,” said Mr Corcoran.
“This is an experienced garda, a member of the roads policing unit, I think the evidence is quite clear,” said Sgt Hanrahan in his summation for the state.
“The garda used a sledgehammer to crack a nut,” replied Mr Powderly. “He could’ve gone under regulations rather than legislation, and my client would’ve paid that."
“The state have proved their version beyond all reasonable doubt, and I am convicting,” said the judge, fining Mr Corcoran €350 and giving him three months to pay. He did not impose a driving disqualification.
