Driver sentenced to four years in prison

The High Court in Glasgow has sentenced Craig McComb to three years and eight months in prison for using his car as a “weapon” to deliberately knock down a cyclist in a violent road rage incident. McComb, 37, who was driving a Vauxhall Astra, intentionally rammed into the back of an e-bike, causing its rider, Duncan Ronaldson, to fall and suffer serious injuries. 

The court also imposed a driving ban of nine years and ten months on McComb, who will be required to take an enhanced driving test before being allowed back on the road.

The incident, which took place on the A92 in Glenrothes in Aug 2022, sparked outrage among cyclists and safety campaigners who have been calling for stronger penalties for drivers who endanger vulnerable road users. The sentence has been welcomed as a significant step towards deterring reckless behaviour on the roads and is a marked change in terms of sentencing in road traffic collision criminal cases.

Mr Ronaldson expressed relief at the outcome.

“I’m grateful that justice has been served and that the court has recognised the seriousness of the offence. The physical and emotional trauma I’ve suffered has been overwhelming, but today’s sentencing brings a sense of closure,” he said.

Cycle Law Scotland, acting for Mr Ronaldson in his civil case, were pleased to learn the court’s decision, viewing it as a much-needed deterrent. Roz Galloway for the solicitors who champion vulnerable road users said, 

“This was a heinous act of aggression by one person against another, let alone a motorist against a vulnerable road user, such as Duncan. We are particularly pleased with the length of the driving ban which will keep this driver off the roads for a very long time, but will also act as a deterrent to other drivers who might act aggressively towards cyclists. We all have a responsibility to look after each other and share the roads with respect.”