Courts / Dublin / Report
'Accidents don't happen, they are caused': daughter of motorcyclist who died after being struck by careless driver
Summary
Laura Rice, daughter of Alan Rice, who died after being struck by a car in Skerries, Co Dublin, has called on drivers to be more cautious on the roads, stating that 'accidents don't happen, they are caused'. Alan Rice died on April 13, 2021, after Terry Gaff (56) veered onto the wrong side of the road while navigating a bend on the R127. Gaff pleaded guilty to careless driving causing death and was handed a six-month suspended sentence, along with a €1,000 fine. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Gaff had no previous convictions and that there were no aggravating factors, such as speeding, alcohol, or drug use. The judge acknowledged the devastating impact of the collision on Mr Rice's family and expressed condolences. Victim impact statements from Mr Rice's family highlighted the profound loss they have experienced, describing Alan Rice as a loving, supportive, and adventurous father, husband, and friend.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Accidents don't happen, they are caused': daughter of motorcyclist who died after being struck by careless driver. Charges or matters: careless driving causing death. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- April 13, 2021 Other
- Christmas Other
- 2024-04-23 Publication
Why: Photo: Collins) A woman whose father died after he was struck by a car while riding his motorbike has asked drivers to take care on the roads because they are effectively "in control of a weapon", adding that "accidents don't happen, they are caused". CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: careless driving causing death (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Gaff, of Mourne Park, Skerries, Dublin, was today handed a suspended sentence and will not be disqualified from driving. He said it was "quite unlikely" that Gaff will re-offend in the future before he imposed a six-month sentence which he suspended in full.
Places mentioned
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
Topics
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