The car, which Simon Davey drove regularly, had a number of major issues which deemed it unsafe to use.
Crown Advocate Chris Dunford explained to the Magistrate’s Court how parts of the vehicle were severely rusted, the tyres were completely worn, the steering system was leaking oil and there were holes in the chassis. The overall structural rigidity of the car was very poor, the brake pads were in need of replacing and the brakes were likely to fail if the defendant had attempted an emergency stop.
“The defects should have been obvious to the driver,” Advocate Dunford added.
Davey originally pleaded not guilty to the charge in July, but was found guilty at trial in October.
“There was more wrong with the vehicle than right with it,” commented Judge Gary Perry on sentencing. “This vehicle was, in my view, a death trap.”
In usual circumstances, a defendant facing such a count would be temporarily disqualified from driving. However, Judge Perry noted Davey’s responsibility towards his mother, who may need to go into a care home if he lost his licence.
Taking this Into account, the Judge granted “exceptional hardship” and decided on a £750 fine, rather than a disqualification.
Pictured top: The Royal Court House.