Banbridge driver fined after collision with parked BMW

PAUL Tamati was fined £350 and given three penalty points after admitting careless driving following a collision with a parked car in Banbridge.

Tamati, 50, of Castle Lodge, Banbridge, appeared before District Judge Natasha Fitzsimons at Banbridge Magistrates’ Court, sitting at Newry Courthouse, on November 5.

The court heard that police received a report of a collision shortly before 1am on February 1, 2026, after neighbours reported that a black BMW had been struck by another vehicle, which had continued along the street.

Officers later located a white Hyundai in the Oakvale area of Banbridge with damage to its rear bumper and side.

Defence counsel said Tamati had believed he had struck a pothole rather than been involved in a collision. An independent witness had also thought the vehicle had hit a pothole and had not realised an accident had occurred.

Tamati pleaded guilty to careless driving. The remaining three charges of failing to stop, remain at the scene and report the accident were withdrawn.

The court heard that his driving record had previously been clean and that he held an executive role in a public service agency.

Judge Fitzsimons imposed three penalty points and a £350 fine, together with a £15 offender levy. He was given 12 weeks to pay.