Barrow driver fined after road rage incident on Abbey Road
A Barrow man has been fined after a road rage incident left another driver fearing that violence would be used against them.
Robert Alexander, 37, approached the other motorist’s car with a clenched fist.
A court heard that he tried to open the car door before punching it three times.
Alexander, of Windsor Street, Barrow, admitted using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear of violence.
South Cumbria Magistrates’ Court fined him £200.
Driver seen moving between lanes
The incident took place on Abbey Road in Barrow.
Prosecutor Lee Dacre said Alexander had been seen moving in and out of lanes as he tried to overtake other traffic.
At a set of red lights, he tried to move the front of his vehicle ahead of the other driver’s car.
A witness said Alexander appeared angry when he got out of his vehicle.
He then walked towards the other motorist’s car with his fist clenched.
The court heard that Alexander mouthed the words: “Get out of your car.”
Car door punched three times
Alexander first tried to open the other driver’s door.
He then punched the door three times.
The witness said the punches were so hard that they were surprised Alexander did not break his hand.
The incident made the motorist believe that Alexander might use unlawful violence against them.
There was no report of the victim being physically injured.
Court heard there had been an earlier incident
Defence solicitor Lisa Phizacklea said Alexander claimed that something had happened between him and the other driver before the confrontation.
She also told the court that the victim appeared to have been worried.
The court heard that Alexander had health issues.
His solicitor argued that there was no need for a community order or rehabilitation work.
Alexander had no previous convictions.
Fine and court costs imposed
Magistrates fined Alexander £200 after he pleaded guilty.
He was also ordered to pay £85 in court costs and an £80 victim surcharge.
This brought the total amount he was ordered to pay to £365.
The case was dealt with at South Cumbria Magistrates’ Court.
