Driver is fined after death

Driver is fined after death

24 October 2012

A STRANGFORD pensioner has been fined £1,000 for causing the death of a motorcyclist in an accident near Saintfield.

Father-of-three Dermot Morris, from Crossgar, died after he was struck by a car being driven by 83 year-old John David Maxwell at Belfast Road on November 25.

At Downpatrick Court on Thursday Maxwell, a retired naval commander of Old Court, Strangford, admitted causing the death of Mr. Morris by driving without due care and attention.

The collision occurred when Maxwell made a right turn, cutting across Mr. Morris who was coming in the opposite direction.

Maxwell’s solicitor, Mr Ronnie Lowry, said the collision occurred due to Maxwell having “a momentary miscalculation of judgement and speed.”

Mr. Lowry also expressed his client’s remorse and sympathies to the family of Mr. Morris. He added that Maxwell had a 63-year clear-driving record.

In addition to the fine, District Judge Mr. Greg McCourt imposed a one-year driving ban.

He said that this sentence “does not reflect the value of the deceased,” but that Mr. Morris’ family may undertake civil court proceedings if they wish.

Expressing his condolences to the Mr. Morris’ family, Mr. McCourt added that the £1,000 fine reflected “the seriousness of the situation.”

Mr. Lowry also expressed his client’s remorse and sympathies to the family of Mr. Morris.

He added that Maxwell had driven for 63-year clear-driving record.