Selfless grandmother saved toddler grandson from careless driver in Wick
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A quick-thinking grandmother pushed her grandson out of the path of an approaching car at a pedestrian crossing and took the brunt of the impact.
The woman ended up in hospital, Wick Sheriff Court heard on Wednesday.
The car driver, elderly Francis Cormack, admitted having driven carelessly by jumping the red light at a pedestrian crossing in Francis Street, Wick, on January 6.
Sheriff Neil Wilson said that the woman was out walking with her two-year-old grandson and was on the crossing when the accident occurred.
David Barclay said that Cormack (85) failed to react to the red light and proceeded into the crossing into the path of the two pedestrians.
The fiscal said that the grandmother "took evasive action, pushing her grandson out of harm's way."
Mr Barclay said that Cormack's car struck the woman and knocked her to the ground.
Witnesses noted that there was blood coming from her head.
The accused told police officers that he had been dazzled by a low sun.
The woman was taken to hospital and subsequently discharged after having 10 stitches inserted in her head and four stitches inserted in her left arm. She also suffered bruising to her body.
Mr Barclay added that despite his age, there was nothing to suggest that Cormack had any health issues.
Solicitor Fiona MacDonald said that there had been no suggestion of excessive speed on Cormack's part and added that his licence was essential to him.
Sheriff Wilson commented that while the accused's action was at the top end of the careless driving scale he was not going to disqualify him.
Cormack, of Mains of Forse, Latheronwheel, was fined £800 and incurred nine penalty points.
