Impatient driver clipped cyclist as she passed

Mark Wishart had to react to avoid being dragged under car

A businesswoman’s “impatience” behind the wheel almost resulted in a cyclist being dragged beneath the wheels of her Land Rover Discovery.

Helen Flett was on her way to an appointment in Bridge of Earn on May 7 when she struck Mark Wishart as he enjoyed a Sunday afternoon outing with friends.

The 64-year-old – who is a partner in the specialist furniture firm Workspace Design – followed behind the trio of cyclists for a short distance as they approached and entered the village.

She then made what Perth Sheriff Court was told had been a “hasty” undertaking manoeuvre as they indicated to turn-off Wicks o’ Baiglie Road.

Two of the group successfully made the right turn into Kintillo Road but Flett clipped Mr Wishart as he attempted to do the same.

The court heard she briefly mounted a kerb to pass him, instead of waiting seconds for him to be out of her path, striking him on the left arm and elbow with her car.

Depute fiscal Michael Sweeney said: “This caused the handlebars of Mr Wishart’s bike to be forced to the right, causing him to fall on to her car and then bounce off it. He had to swiftly put his feet down on the road to avoid being pulled under the vehicle.”

Flett, of Manse Road in Perth, pled guilty to careless driving. Not guilty pleas to charges of failing to stop and report the accident were accepted.

Solicitor Neil Hay said his client was “gravely upset” by what had happened and “acutely aware of the distress” she had caused.

“Mrs Flett had been following three cyclists who were clearly enjoying a Sunday afternoon cycle,” he said.

“Had this gone to trial, witnesses might have said that she slowed her speed as she approached the cyclists.

“Two cyclists indicated correctly and made their right-turn manoeuvre successfully but it would appear Mrs Flett was a little hasty in seeking to move past the complainer, who was nearest her car.

“Had she waited only a short time then the road would have been clear and there would have been no collision.”

The court was told Flett had continued on for no more than 100 yards before reaching her destination.

Witnesses there noted that she was clearly upset and she was “consoled by people who knew her”.

Sheriff Gillian Wade told Flett it was “unfortunate” she was appearing in court but added: “Your driving resulted in someone being struck by your car and that must have been frightening for him.

“Your driving also shows a degree of impatience that is not acceptable.”

Flett was fined £400 and had her driving licence endorsed with five penalty points.

Businesswoman Helen Flett outside Perth Sheriff Court.