Courts / Donegal / Report
Suspended sentence for man whose careless driving left cyclist in a coma
Summary
On 4 February 2015, Robert Faherty, 63, was driving without headlights when Grainne Duncan's bicycle struck his car, leaving her in a coma for two months. Faherty, who had no prior convictions and a clean driving record, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious harm. Judge Pauline Codd, noting the absence of speed, alcohol, or road fault, described the incident as a momentary lapse rather than reckless behaviour. She imposed a nine‑month suspended sentence, citing Faherty's remorse, psychiatric report, and daily reliance on his vehicle. No driving ban was imposed. Duncan, 45, remains in a vegetative state, requiring full assistance, and her husband has pursued civil action for medical costs estimated at €540,000. The court acknowledged the profound impact on Duncan's life and her family's suffering.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Suspended sentence for man whose careless driving left cyclist in a coma. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- February 4, 2015 Other
- 2017-05-05 Publication
Why: Gda Murphy said that the main contributing factor to the accident was that Ms Duncan was unable to see Mr Faherty's car because he did not have his lights on. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Credit: Collins) By Declan Brennan and Catherine Sanz A man whose careless driving left a cyclist without the ability to speak, walk or hear has been given a suspended sentence of nine months imprisonment.
Places mentioned
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