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Exhausted driver fell asleep on trunk road after missing lay-by
Page 37
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A LIVERPOOL lorry driver, accused of taking a nap in his cab on the inside lane of the A.55 in North Wales, has been warned by Llandudno Magistrates that he could be facing a prison sentence.
Joseph Dignam was convicted of dangerous driving in his absence and a warrant was issued for his arrest. He appeared before the magistrates from custody after being arrested at his home.
Gill Jones, prosecuting, said Dignam had stopped, exhausted, after missing a lay-by on the dual carriageway close to the Penmaenbach tunnel, west of Conwy.
However, his 38-tonne Irish-registered attic was spotted stationary on the inside lane of the A55 early on 14 August when there was a significant amount oi traffic on the road. Dignam told police he had taker insufficient rest because he feared being sacked if ht missed a ferry from Holyhead on the Isle of Anglese) to the Irish Republic.
He had exceeded the 10 hours daily driving perioc and told police responding to a report of a broker down lorry: "Fm just tired. I'm taking a rest."
Dignam had passed the lay-by entrance and faller asleep at the wheel of the parked wagon. No flashing warning lights were displayed, said Mrs Jones Roger Thomas, defending,said Dignam worked foi an "extremely harsh" company and employees were allegedly discouraged from using tachographs.
Dignam was granted unconditional bail, pending the preparation of a pre-sentence report. However the magistrates warned him that they were keeping all their sentencing options open and would considei confiscation of the lorry.
After an interim driving ban was imposed ,Thomw said Dignam faced having to take a re-test at the enc of a ban ,and could have great difficulty getting a EGA/ licence in future. He had worked as a lorry driver foi a considerable number of years.