English insurance is ‘not valid’ here, Limerick driver told
A LIMERICK woman believed (incorrectly) that her English car insurance covered her in Ireland, a court has heard.
Suzanne Teresa Stokes, aged 36, of Reens East, Rathkeale pleaded guilty, at Newcastle West Court, to driving without insurance and failing to restrain a child in a vehicle.
Garda Aidan O’Gorman gave evidence of stopping Ms Stokes on the N21 at Reens East.
Solicitor Ted McCarthy said his client had valid English insurance on the vehicle and thought that covered her.
“Garda O’Gorman put her straight on that. English insurance doesn’t extend beyond the borders of England.
“Two days later she got Irish car insurance. She is on lone parent allowance - she has a large family,” said Mr McCarthy.
Regarding the failing to restrain a child offence, the solicitor said Ms Stokes had restrained the child but she kept clicking it off.
“So be it,” said Mr McCarthy.
Judge Carol Anne Coolican fined Ms Stokes €500 for driving without insurance. The judge used her discretion not to disqualify her.
A fine of €200 was imposed for a child not being restrained.