COVID is making us angrier drivers: magistrate’s warning

COVID-19 has triggered a surge in road rage cases, prompting a Brisbane magistrate to warn motorists to keep their cool.

A Holland Park Magistrate has urged motorists to stay calm after what he says is a “statistical’’ jump in road rage cases caused by COVID-19 frstrustration.

Magistrate Simon Young made the comment while sentencing business owner Wolfgang Bruce Kay, 58, this morning over a public nuisance charge.

The court heard Kay, a sign company boss who employs 15 people, lost his cool after an incident on July 18 at Henry St, Greenslopes.

Kay, who pleaded guilty, admitted to smashing a rear window of a parked car while a toddler was inside.

“This incident highlights the dangers of these escalations,’’ Mr Young said.

“A young child was exposed to potential harm.

“These type of incidents are becoming more common — there’s a statistical increase in them since the COVID lockdowns.

“It is frustrating. Six people ran red lights in front of me on the way (to work) today.

“But this type of incident must cease. The court must denounce them in strong terms.’’

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A police prosecutor told the court Kay, a respectable businessman and father of four with almost no traffic or criminal history, lost his temper after another motorist indicated and turned into the driveway of his property.

Kay got out of his vehicle and an argument ensued, during which Kay picked up a tripod and hit a car window, smashing it.

There was an 18-month-old toddler in a backwards-facing child seat in the rear of the car, but luckily they were not injured.

Kay stormed off but returned a short time later to apologise, offered to pay compensation and willingly handed over his details to the other motorist.

Kay’s lawyer, Ian Bartels, said his client was embarrassed and remorseful.

“He did not attempt to overtake the complainant, as alleged (by police) or park across their driveway,’’ Mr Bartels said.

“He did not anticipate the window would smash and he certainly didn’t know there was a child in the back.’’

Mr Young said Kay’s early plea was an expression of remorse, and took into account the fact Kay quickly returned to the scene to apologise.

“This is out of character for you. It’s not strange to anyone in the court today what the frustrations of (the lockdown) are,’’ he said.

“But there needs to be general and personal deterrence.’’

Mr Young fined Kay $750, did not exercise his option to disqualify Kay from driving and also did not record a conviction.