Tractor driver convicted and fined €400 following Longford collision
Longford District Court heard the defendant was driving a tractor which was towing a car and the car being towed collided with a parked car
A tractor driver who was towing a car which veered into a parked car and caused damage has been convicted but has avoided a driving ban.
Luan Russell of Ballinalone, Drumraney, Athlone, Co Westmeath pleaded guilty at Longford District Court, to careless driving at Creevaghrua, Creevaghbeg, county Longford.
Sergeant Enda Daly, for the State, said gardaí received a report on January 3, 2024 that a tractor was trying to tow a car through the area.
"The car had been towed but it collided with a parked car and the driver of the tractor left the scene along with two other males who had been trying to navigate this vehicle as it was being towed."
Sgt Daly said gardaí observed a white Audi registration plate which had crashed into the passenger side of the damaged vehicle.
Judge Vincent Deane asked wryly, "I take it this didn't happen at speed.”
Sgt Daly replied that it did not.
The court heard Mr Russell had no previous convictions.
Solicitor David Nohilly, defending, said the damage to the parked vehicle had been compensated.
"He was driving the tractor and towing a car into the housing estate on the day in question and unfortunately the car veered sideways and impacted the parked vehicle."
Mr Nohilly said his client was 17 years of age at the time.
"He is farming a substantial farm and in that regard I would hope, Judge, that you would use your discretion and not disqualify."
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Judge Deane said he was within his rights to disqualify, but he decided not to impose a driving ban and instead handed down a €400 fine with six months to pay.