Woman who reversed car over three-year-old boy as he played on street avoids a driving ban
A woman who drove over a three-year-old boy has been fined €501 at Drogheda Court for careless driving.
The case against Sorcha Lane (35) had been adjourned for her to complete a Driver Awareness Course.
Last December the defendant, of Cherryfield View, Hartstown, Dublin 15, pleaded guilty to a charge of careless driving at Narroways Park, Bettystown, Co. Meath.
Sgt Áodhán Healy said the incident occurred on May 19, 2024, after the defendant had reversed out of a driveway while the boy, who was on a bike, was playing on the road.
The child suffered grazing when he was dragged a short distance by the car.
The victim’s father who had been keeping an eye on him had, with others, lifted the car off his son.
The court was told that the boy continued to receive counselling for his psychological injuries.
It was stated on behalf of Ms Lane by barrister Martin Dully that she had left a party early following an argument.
CCTV from a house doorbell was played in court and counsel said it showed his client’s car reversing onto the road then moving off slowly and as it did, appeared to drive over the boy.
He said the defendant had been distracted and hadn’t seen the child. She should have known there would be children about.
Ms Lane was very apologetic. She had to attend counselling and remained upset.
An events organiser, she would lose her job if disqualified from driving.
Judge Andrews said that she was very sorry for the boy’s parents.
On the adjourned date, the court was told that a Driver Awareness Course had been completed.
A fine was imposed as outlined. No disqualification was imposed.