Teen learner driver admits doing 170kph on M7 motorway in Laois
The teenager was admitted dangerous driving
A teenage learner driver admitted driving at 170kph on the motorway in Laois.
Simon Cawley (18) of 35 Rushall, Mountrath pleaded guilty to dangerous driving on the M7 at Ballyadams, Portlaoise on May 14, 2024. He also admitted driving on a motorway as a provisional licence holder.
Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendant was detected driving a 142 registered blue Volkswagen Golf when stopped at 3.30pm. He explained that a learner driver is prohibited from driving on the motorway. He said the teenager had no previous convictions.
Solicitor Philip Meagher said his client was attending court with his father.
“It is a very high speed and he understands that,” he said.
Mr Meagher said the man had been travelling to pick up a wedding suit on the day he was stopped. He explained that there was a plea of guilty and the defendant was not looking to reduce the dangerous driving charge to one of careless driving as can happen in some instances.
Judge Andrew Cody fined the man €500 and banned him from driving for two years.
He asked for evidence of financing and purchasing the car.
Mr Meagher said his client was on jobseekers allowance of €140 a week. The car was bought with the proceeds of a claim, he explained.
On examining the paperwork provided by the defendant, Judge Cody granted legal aid in the case.