Daniel May sentenced in Southport court for M1 road rage rampage

The Gold Coast man first targeted the couple on the M1 – swerving and throwing things at their car – but the confrontation did not stop there. Find out what happened in court.

Daniel May leaving the Southport courthouse. Picture: Jessica Paul

A Gold Coast man has avoided a recorded conviction after targeting a woman and her partner in a terrifying road rage incident on the M1.

Southport Magistrates Court was told Daniel Steven Wesley May began tailgating the other car in the far-right lane of the major highway on October 11, 2021, almost clipping the vehicle as it changed lanes to let him past.

Prosecutor Gavin Reece said that when the other driver raised her middle finger, May slowed to meet their car and began yelling abuse and to “pull over”.

Mr Reece said May then threw what appeared to be a screwdriver at their car.

The 23-year-old followed the other driver as she moved left across the highway to get away, swerving and throwing other items at their car. The woman’s partner started recording the altercation and called police.

The court was told the woman exited the highway but soon saw May’s car was again behind her – this time at an intersection and with another man in the passenger seat.

Mr Reece said that once both vehicles came to a stop, May got out of his car and struck the other vehicle, damaging the windscreen and right side mirror.

It was heard May claimed he had “a sh*t day at work” and made “partial admissions” when he later spoke with police.

Defence lawyer Bettina Webb, of Howden Saggers Lawyers, said her client struggled to manage his emotions – particularly a build-up of frustration or anger – but was now prescribed medicinal marijuana and open to further professional treatment.

Ms Webb told the court May had stable employment as a cabinet maker and had proven he was able to contribute to the community without further offending.

Magistrate Sarah Thompson said she accepted the incident as “out of character” for May based on his lack of prior and subsequent offending.

“Your driving was protracted and it was dangerous – it must have been terrifying for the complainant in that vehicle,” Ms Thompson said.

May pleaded guilty to one count each of dangerous operation of a vehicle, wilful damage, and breaching bail.

He was ordered to complete 80 hours’ community service and no conviction was recorded.