A Perth rubbish truck driver was fined $2500 after pleading guilty to driving carelessly and accidentally running over a four-year-old boy who was riding a scooter down a suburban street in Scarborough. The incident occurred on November 24, resulting in the boy suffering a broken leg and ligament damage. CCTV footage showed the boy scooting ahead of his mother on a footpath before the truck emerged from a laneway and hit him. The driver, David Williams, stopped when he heard the mother’s screams and was described as “extremely remorseful” and concerned for the boy’s welfare during his sentencing at Perth Magistrates Court.
Williams, a father-of-three council employee with no criminal record, has been a truck driver for his whole working life. His lawyer submitted five references on his behalf, highlighting his remorse over the incident. The court handed down a $2500 fine and a three-month driver’s license disqualification, preventing him from working in his profession during that time. The boy’s father expressed disappointment in the penalty, stating that the driver would have to live with the consequences of his actions every day. He noted that the three-month disqualification period did not compare to the length of time his son had been recovering from the injuries sustained in the accident.
The boy was on his scooter when the rubbish truck collided with him on the footpath, resulting in significant injuries. The father emphasized that no penalty could reverse what had happened to his son, despite the driver’s remorse over the incident. He expressed frustration at the disparity between the driver’s punishment and the ongoing recovery process his son had been going through since the accident. While the driver faced financial consequences and a temporary license disqualification, the boy’s family continued to deal with the physical and emotional aftermath of the incident.
The case highlighted the importance of caution and vigilance when operating large vehicles, especially in residential areas where children may be present. The incident served as a reminder of the potential consequences of careless driving, even in situations that may seem routine or familiar to experienced drivers. The fine and license disqualification imposed on the driver aimed to hold him accountable for his actions while sending a message about the need for increased road safety awareness, particularly in areas where children are likely to be present. The boy’s family hoped that the outcome of the case would raise awareness about the potential dangers of careless driving and encourage others to prioritize safety on the road.
The driver’s remorse and concern for the boy’s well-being were noted during the court proceedings, emphasizing the impact that the incident had on both the victim and those involved. While the driver faced legal consequences for his actions, the boy and his family continued to navigate the physical and emotional challenges of the aftermath. The incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible driving practices and the need for drivers to remain vigilant and attentive at all times, especially in areas where pedestrians, including children, may be present. The case underscored the lasting impact of careless driving and highlighted the ongoing importance of promoting road safety and awareness among all motorists.
