Courts / Dublin / Report

Driving ban upheld for university head who left motorcyclist in coma

Summary

Brian Jackson, a university department head, has failed to have his two-year driving ban reduced on appeal after he caused a motorcyclist to be left in a coma and with permanent injuries by performing a dangerous u-turn. Jackson was convicted of careless driving causing serious bodily harm and fined €3,000. The motorcyclist sustained serious internal injuries, required a colostomy bag, and now has a permanent ankle injury. Jackson's appeal argued that the disqualification was too long given the conviction and that he had no previous convictions. However, the Court of Appeal upheld the two-year ban, noting the severity of the injuries and the fact that Jackson had a perfect driving record before the incident. The victim described the accident as "emotionally devastating" and a "life sentence" due to the permanent impact on his ability to live. The court ruled that the disqualification was within the sentencing judge's discretion and was not a disproportionate penalty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Driving ban upheld for university head who left motorcyclist in coma. Procedural stage: appeal. Findings: Convicted

When:

• December 9, 2019 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2026-04-13 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Road Traffic Stage Appeal

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Read the original CNI report