Offaly man who thought he was insured when driving replacement vehicle avoids driving ban

An Offaly man was convicted and fined €750 for no insurance during last week's Tullamore District Court sitting, but managed to avoid losing his driving licence.

Donal Francis Donnelly, 1 Hospital Lane, Birr committed the offence on Moorpark Street, Birr on May 27, 2024. He pleaded guilty.

The defending solicitor Patrick Martin pointed out that Mr Donnelly's “usual vehicle” was in the garage for repairs and he was under the impression that his insurance company was covering him to drive this temporary, replacement vehicle.

Sergeant Brendan Kearns said the defendant had a number of previous speeding convictions. Mr Martin pointed out that Mr Donnelly drives 60,000 kilometres per year for his job and his driving licence is crucial for him.

Judge Andrew Cody convicted and fined as stated, adding that he wouldn't disqualify the defendant from holding a driving licence.