A part-time taxi driver who was doing 78mph in a 40mph zone has been slapped with six penalty points.
James McNicol, 67, had dropped off the last fare of his shift on September 27, 2021, when he carelessly drove at 78mph in a temporary 40mph zone on the M8 near to Glasgow Airport.
Fiscal depute, John Penman told Paisley Sheriff Court: “Around 5.15am on September 27, police officers on uniformed mobile patrol in a marked vehicle were driving on the M8 eastbound approaching the slip road at Glasgow Airport.
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“The speed limit at the time was a temporary 40mph due to barrier repairs ahead and it was dark, it had been raining and there was surface water.
“Police observed a white vehicle enter the motorway and continue to accelerate beyond 40mph to 78mph for 0.3miles and overtook one vehicle before passing the Arkleston junction where police stopped the accused.
“Officers main concern was the speed and condition at the time of the offence and the accused was advised a report would be submitted.
“Dashcam footage from the accused’s car was reviewed.”
McNicol admitted a charge of carless driving on September 27, 2021 by driving at 78mph in a 40mph on the M8 eastbound, during the hours of darkness and in wet weather conditions when visibility was poor.
Defence solicitor, Kris Buchanan told the court McNicol had finished his last fare and was in a hurry to get home.
Mr Buchanan added: “Mr McNicol had already been at Glasgow Airport that day and this was his last fare.
“He accepts his speed in the circumstances were not acceptable and he is remorseful and apologetic for his actions.
“He has no previous convictions and to get to the age of 67 to be in court for the first time is something he is not proud of.
“He is technically retired but works part-time as a taxi driver to supplement his income and his taxi license is in the process of being renewed which has been paused pending today’s outcome and this is something he will have to advise the board of.
“He ordinarily practices better judgement and is truly remorseful.”
Sentencing, Sheriff Tom McCartney fined McNicol of Fir Place in Cambuslang, £500 and ordered this to be paid at £50 per month.
In addition, Sheriff McCartney issued six penalty points reduced from eight to reflect McNicol’s early plea.
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