Laois hit and run driver panicked

Within an hour Laois Gardai were at the door of a woman who ‘panicked’ and left the scene of a collision.  

Julie Nevin, 52, of 21 Grove Park, Mountmellick, Laois was accused of careless driving and hit and run at Park View Road, Portlaoise on February 23, 2022.  

Sergeant JJ Kirby said the driver was stopped at a junction when they were rear ended by a red Ford Focus which fled the scene immediately. 

He said the defendant, who has five previous convictions, admitted she had been driving. 

Solicitor Philip Meagher said his client had been momentarily distracted at collided with the car in front. 

“She didn’t appreciate it constituted an accident while there was no damage to her vehicle,” he told the sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

“She simply panicked and drove away,” said Mr Meagher, who said his client was apologetic. 

“She knew that the other driver had her registration number,” he added. 

Judge Andrew Cody fined the woman €300 for careless driving and €100 for leaving the scene of an accident.