A motorist whose vehicle lost control and skidded into another on a narrow road has been prosecuted at Fermanagh Magistrates Court for driving without due care and attention.

Damien Maguire (19) from Boyhill Road in Maguiresbridge pleaded guilty and was fined £250 getting five penalty points endorsed on his licence.

The court heard evidence that on 30th September last police were tasked to attend a two vehicle accident along the Rabbit Burrow Road, Lisbellaw.

On arrival at the scene police noted both vehicles were extensively damaged. The defendant had been travelling in the direction of Lisbellaw when he came around a bend in the road, met another vehicle coming in the opposite direction and braked. The defendant's vehicle skidded out of control crashing into the front nearside of the third party vehicle, which had been able to stop prior to the accident.

When the defendant's vehicle was checked it was found to have a defective front tyre.

Defending, Bernard Corrigan said this accident happened on a narrow 'B' class road. As the defendant approached a corner his view was restricted by overhanging trees. The road was damp and slippery due to fallen leaves.

Mr Corrigan said his client applied the brakes when he saw the other vehicle approaching and he skidded. The defendant acknowledged he may have been travelling too fast for the circumstances.

Resident Magistrate Liam McNally said the difference between the defendant and the driver of the other vehicle involved here was that the other vehicle was able to bring their vehicle to a stop. Mr McNally said this was another case where a serious accident could have resulted from someone driving too fast for the road conditions. The defendant was fined £75 for the defective tyre.