Driver gets ban and a £200 fine after hitting road cyclist

A diabetic driver failed to see a pushbike crossing his path even though the rider had a high visibility jacket and lights.

David Dunn’s car hit the cyclist and knocked him from his bike, a court heard.

Dunn’s lawyer claimed Dunn’s“erratic diabetes” may have contributed to the crash by affecting his vision.

Stuart Peebles, defending, told Livingston Sheriff Court that Dunn had had his licence revoked on health grounds after a hospital consultant advised him he should never drive again.

He had also lost his job at a local distillery because his ill health meant he could not maintain proper safety standards.

Dunn (63) from Linlithgow, was originally charged with causing the crash in the town’s Preston Road by driving dangerously.

He pled guilty on Tuesday to a reduced charge of driving his red Chevrolet Kalos without due care and attention on January 6 this year.

The cyclist was treated in hospital for minor grazes to the right side of his body and dispensed painkillers for the pain in his legs, back and neck.

Mr Peebles told the court that Dunn’s insurance company had since settled a compensation claim with the cyclist.

Mr Peebles said:“He was diagnosed with diabetes which is described as‘erratic’. Maybe the onset of this contributed to him failing to see the cyclist. It’s as simple as that.

“He indicates he will not be driving again himself. Given the circumstances where a consultant said he was not fit to drive I can’t see this ever changing and he’s not expecting to ever drive again.”

Sheriff Jamie Gilmour said in view of Dunn’s limited income he would fine him £200 and banned him from driving for 12 months.