Galway In Days Gone By

Collision consternation

A collision between motor-cars, which fortunately was not attended with serious consequences, occurred at Nile Lodge, Galway, on Thursday evening.

A Ford car was being driven from Salthill towards New Line by the owner, a Mr. Hanley, of Newbridge, when it collided with another car driven by Mr. Girven, of the Congested Districts Board, who was on his way from Taylor’s Hill to the city.

The cars met at the crossing at Nile Lodge. Mr. Girven endeavoured to get clear by accelerating his Cumberland, but the Ford struck the Cumberland in the middle of the right running board which was broken.

The impact, which could be heard from a considerable distance, drove Mr. Girven’s car against the lamppost at the corner and wrenched the left back wheel practically clean off.

The Ford swerved across the road and dashed against the wall, smashing the radiator and lamp, bending the front axel and breaking the front spring.

Soon after the accident the Civic Guards and a small number of spectators came on the scene and rendered what assistance they could. Both cars were taken to Mr. J. J. Ward’s garage, where it is understood the brakes are to be examined.

Eyewitnesses declare that neither driver sounded a horn when approaching the corner. The Ford driver was without a licence and did not carry a hooter but utilised the police whistle which he declares he blew as he approached the corner.

The accident, which fortunately did not eventuate in tragedy, furnishes another illustration of the necessity for careful driving in approaching and passing dangerous city corners.

Pictured is one of French artist Claude Merle's lifesize puppets stands in the soaring heat on the banks of the canal at O'Brien's Bridge for the opening of the 28th Galway International Arts Festival on July 11, 2005.