Longford woman who collided with and seriously injured man on e-scooter avoids ban for careless driving

A young Longford motorist, who veered across the road onto oncoming traffic and crashed into a man on an e-scooter causing serious injuries, has avoided a driving ban.

Sophie Mooney (22) of Creenagh, Longford town was not present in Longford District Court but her solicitor Frank Gearty informed Judge Bernadette Owens she wished to plead guilty to careless driving.

The court heard she had plans in place prior to the crash at Townparks, Longford on November 23, 2023 to move to Australia, which she subsequently did.

Sergeant Enda Daly said Ms Mooney was driving an Audi A4 when she collided with an e-scooter travelling in the direction of Longford town in the Townparks area of the N63 at 2.50pm.

Sgt Daly said the defendant was travelling in the opposite direction when she "pulled across the road onto oncoming traffic and collided with the injured party causing serious injury".

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The injured man was brought to Tullamore Hospital by ambulance with significant injuries.

Sgt Daly said the victim suffered a broken fibula, damage to his knee and pelvis, a broken foot in two places, two broken ribs, a lacerated liver and a dislocated thumb.

Ms Mooney had no previous convictions.

Solicitor Frank Gearty said his client was fully insured and cooperated with Gardaí when the 'horrible accident' occurred.

“She had a pre-planned once in a lifetime trip to Australia and she was also willing to come back to Ireland were it to become necessary,” he added.

Mr Gearty said Ms Mooney pulled out of a nearby garage and "regretfully she did not spot the scooter, which may have been travelling at some speed”.

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He stated there was also a traffic control lights system ahead.

Mr Gearty said Ms Mooney attended Longford Garda Station five times in the week following the collision and she had written a letter of apology and was of good character.

"She has every intention of returning to Ireland in the relatively near future and she hopes to get work as a carer which would involve travelling with a licence,” he added.

Mr Gearty appealed for leniency and he asked Judge Bernadette Owens to "exercise her discretion".
Judge Owens decided not to disqualify Ms Mooney, however, she convicted her and imposed a €650 fine with five months to pay.