Louth motorcyclist who sped away from gardaí successfully appeals dangerous driving conviction

By Francis Carroll, The Drogheda Independent

A 48-year-old motorcyclist who accelerated from a pursuing Garda car has been successful in his appeal to reduce a dangerous driving conviction to one of careless driving.

Ronan Mooney, a self-employed barber, of Avenue One, Yellowbatter, Drogheda, was fined €1,000 in the district court and disqualified for two years for dangerous driving at Bawn, Castlebellingham on May 31, 2024.

However, when his appeal was finalised at Dundalk Circuit Court, Judge Dara Hayes reduced the charge and removed the disqualification.

The €1,000 fine was affirmed and the appellant given six months to pay.

Gda Alan Macklin previously gave evidence that at 7.01pm on the date in question he was travelling behind a Kawasaki motorcycle and, from his own speedometer, estimated that it was doing approximately 120 kmh. The speed limit was 80kmh.

When he activated the blue lights and siren, the motorcycle accelerated at a greater speed that his vehicle was capable of.

It was a “narrow enough” windy country road with high trees alongside. There were sharp bends between straight stretches. No other vehicles were inconvenienced.

Gda Macklin continued that Mr Mooney, who has no previous convictions, ultimately pulled into a private house. He spoke to him but the appellant “barely spoke to me at all”.

Barrister Niall Mackin said that Mr Mooney was apologetic, and willing to do a safe driving course.

On the adjourned date a certificate of completion of the course was available.

Counsel said that a report indicated Mr Mooney’s clear remorse.

Judge Hayes said it was “poor driving by any standards” but appeared out of character.

It fell on the margins of careless and dangerous driving. The court was “just about persuaded” to reduce the charge to careless driving.