Teen motorist caught driving at 176kmh on Louth road was racing to help person ‘under threat’
The Drogheda IndependentAn 18 year-old man drove at 176kmh on his way to help a person under threat, Dundalk Court has been told.
Jamie Mackin, Drumboy Road, Crossmaglen, Co. Armagh is accused of dangerous driving on the N53 at Philipstown, Hackballscross where the road is governed by a 100kmh speed limit.
Through his solicitor the construction worker offered a plea of guilty to the lesser charge of careless driving which does not carry a mandatory disqualification on conviction.
Finalisation of the case was adjourned until November 19 for the defendant to compete a driver awareness course.
Judge Nicola Andrews told him that he should he considering a “not insignificant amount” to the court fund.
Evidence was given that during a speed check on the road on June 1 last, a Volkswagen Passat was detected travelling at 176kmh in a 100kmh zone. The car was stopped and the driver arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving.
Solicitor Frank McDonnell said that his client received word that another person was under threat at a house in Dundalk and he was on the way there.
The driving in question lasted for about two miles. The road was clear and conditions dry. He didn’t overtake before getting caught in traffic and stopping when the guards signalled.
Mr McDonnell continued that the prosecuting garda consented to the charge being reduced.
The defendant engaged and co-operated with the officer.
He worked six days a week in construction and rarely socialised. He was saving up to buy a digger. His future was in driving when he bought the digger.
It cost him €5,000 to insure the car.
Mr Mackin had never been in trouble before nor had he ever given any trouble at home. His mother was present in court.
The solicitor said he was apologising through him. To lose his licence would have an immeasurable impact and set him back.
Judge Andrews said she would have to think about it. It was “very troubling”.