Driver involved in Derry road traffic collision drove 'while unfit through drugs'

A man who was involved in a collision after he had taken prescribed medication has been disqualified and fined at Derry Magistrate's Court today. 

Canal McGavigan admitted driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, careless driving and possessing drugs December 20 2024.

The court was told that police were called to a collision with minor damage in Barrack Street.

They spoke to the defendant who said he had been reaching for glasses and misjudged the distance to the vehicle in front of him. 

While police were speaking to McGavigan they noticed his speech was slurred and he was almost falling asleep. 

The defendant told police that he had taken prescribed medication and also had three tablets on him.

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that his client was on prescribed medication and had some spare as it was the weekend.

He said the defendant had issues but was getting 'a grip on things with assistance'.

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McGavigan was disqualified for 12 months and fined £550 and ordered to pay £150 in compensation.