Convicted pensioner keeps licence and freedom

An Irish pensioner has kept her driving licence and her freedom, despite being convicted of death by dangerous driving and receiving a three-year driving ban.

Mary Crawford, 72, received a 12-month sentence, suspended for 18 months, and was banned from driving for three years. But since she is appealing against the decision, she is currently free to continue driving.

The accident occurred on May 16, 2002, when Mrs Crawford pulled out of a central reservation to cross the main Ballymena to Antrim Road. Graham Robinson, 37, collided with her car which then flipped and landed on top of him, killing him instantly.

The court was told that Robinson had been travelling at speeds of up to 100 mph when it happened.

The judge said her case was unusual. " Your situation is light years away from other incidents of dangerous driving causing death, which often involve offenders high on drugs and drink taking part in joyriding. I take the view that it was a momentary error of judgement. "

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