At the Limerick Petty Sessions held yesterday, Mr E. J. Bannatyne found himself facing fines for alleged speeding and failure to produce his driving licence upon demand. The case, brought to court by Sergeant Wilson of the Royal Irish Constabulary, highlighted the ongoing concerns regarding road safety in the bustling city of Limerick.

Sergeant Wilson, acting on behalf of the prosecution, stated that Mr Bannatyne was summonsed for driving his motor car on the 1st of the month at a speed deemed unsafe for the public. While estimating the speed at approximately 30 miles per hour, Sergeant Wilson admitted that he had not precisely timed the alleged violation. Mr Bannatyne, however, argued that the speed was only 15 miles per hour, a claim supported by the defendant’s chauffeur.

The incident occurred near Punch’s Cross, where the road was reported to be clear. The discrepancy in speed estimates between the prosecution and the defence added a layer of complexity to the case. Upon being stopped by Sergeant Wilson, Mr Bannatyne admitted to a speed of 15 miles per hour, while both he and his chauffeur maintained that this was a safe and reasonable speed for the road conditions.

In the courtroom, Mr Bannatyne vehemently opposed the conviction. Representing the defence, Mr Hickson argued against the prosecution’s case. The defendant’s legal counsel contended that if convictions were handed out in such cases, it could be interpreted as a deterrent to motoring in general. Mr Delmege supported this argument, suggesting that if such convictions became commonplace, it might lead to an influx of similar cases in the court.

Mr John Q. Kelly expressed his opinion, stating that in many instances, convictions would likely be required, echoing concerns about maintaining road safety. However, Mr Hickson, presiding as the Resident Magistrate, asserted that great caution was needed from motorists driving through Limerick due to the slow traffic of various types within the city.

Despite the city witnessing a high volume of motor traffic, it was noted that this case was only the second of its kind to come before the magistrates. This fact was considered indicative of the discretionary manner in which drivers typically operated within the city. The magistrates faced a crucial decision, balancing the need for road safety with the understanding that strict convictions could deter motoring altogether.

Ultimately, most of the magistrates ruled in favour of conviction. Mr Hickson imposed a fine of £2 along with court costs. This decision, while emphasizing the importance of road safety, also highlighted the ongoing challenge of striking a balance between enforcing regulations and allowing for reasonable motoring practices in the vibrant city of Limerick.

As the case concluded, it left lingering questions about how authorities would continue to navigate the delicate balance between road safety and the practicalities of motoring in Limerick, a city where traffic dynamics present a unique set of challenges for both drivers and law enforcement.

Dublin Daily Express – Friday 14 April 1911