The woman who drove over a cyclist twice after making an illegal turn has been given a 12-month suspended sentence.
50 year old Izabella Aleksandrowicz, from Swords Co Dublin pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm to Andrew Brett in Dublin city centre on 11 December 2023.
Mr Brett's victim impact statement was read out in court by prosecuting counsel Stephen Montgomery BL, he said that he was "convinced he was going to die" and is "still tortured by the sound of my breaking bones".
Mr Brett suffered damage to his liver, internal bleeding and had fractured ribs and a fractured pelvis.
"I was a strong marathon runner. Running was a core part of my identity and lifestyle. I am a shadow of the athlete I once was," Mr Brett said.
He also explained that he was unable to participate in Christmas that year with his young kids, he said when he eventually got out of hospital the tree and decorations were down.
Mr Brett later told gardaí that Aleksandrowicz was only looking left as he approached from her right hand side as she was making the illegal turn. Mr Brett said he was screaming as loud as he could before he was also crushed by the rear wheels of the SUV.
Aleksandrowicz had a full polish license, remained at the scene, and had not taken any drugs or alcohol.
Judge Crowe accepted that the probation report concluded that she was a low-risk reoffender, given her lack of previous convictions and pro-social attitude. The report also concluded that Aleksandrowicz felt remorse for her actions and had an understanding of the impact she had on Mr Brett and his family.
Judge Crowe imposed a 12-month sentence, suspended for two years and Aleksandrowicz has been suspended from driving for two years.
