BMW driver spotted undertaking on N25 spared disqualification

Cork motorist, who was seen 'gesticulating' with a mobile phone in her hand, convicted of careless driving

Thu, 11 Sep, 2025 - 12:44

David Forsythe

A Cork woman who was observed by another motorist undertaking on a busy main road has been convicted of careless driving in the district court.

Sergeant Majella O’Sullivan told Youghal District Court that Samantha Murray, aged 34, of Knockpogue Avenue, Farranree, Cork, was observed driving carelessly on the N25 road in East Cork, heading in the direction of Youghal.

Another motorist reported that a BMW car undertook him on the left-hand side, and he had to take evasive action to avoid hitting another vehicle as it went on ahead of him.

The motorist reported that the driver, identified as Samantha Murray, was observed “gesticulating” with a mobile phone in her hand.

The court heard that Murray closely approached an Audi ahead of her while still gesticulating, and then “brake checked” the following motorist twice.

The court was told that Murray had two previous convictions, both for motoring offences, and was previously disqualified from driving in 2022.

Sgt O’Sullivan said that Murray was initially charged with the more serious offence of dangerous driving, but the State had agreed to accept a guilty plea to the lesser charge of careless driving.

Defence solicitor James Moore said his client admitted she was driving carelessly on the date in question.

He said that she had just turned onto the main road from a petrol station and undertook the vehicle to her right as she did so.

He said that Murray had a full-time job that required her to drive, and she previously had a serious medical diagnosis that required her to drive to appointments.

Judge Michael Ramsey said that, given her personal circumstances, he would not disqualify Murray from driving. Murray was convicted of careless driving, fined €500, and given three months to pay the fine.