A lorry driver who crashed into a car has been fined £500 for careless driving.

Clive Billington, of Bayr Cam, Douglas, admitted the offence and had his licence endorsed with six points.

Prosecuting advocate Rebecca Cubbon told the court the 52-year-old was driving a HGV at the junction at Vicarage Road next to Kirby industrial estate on July 16 at 8.30am.

He edged forward but then reversed to let a bus pass. He then moved forward hitting the side of an oncoming car.

When interviewed, Billington said he did not feel responsible for the accident and he felt it was clear he was intending to pull out.

He initially pleaded not guilty and a pre-trial review was set for December 5, but on that date he changed his plea. In a basis of plea, he said he had reversed back when he saw the bus but had not gone back behind the stop sign.

Advocate Dawn Jones said Billington drove for a living and had held the appropriate licence since he was 21, with a good driving record.

’He felt it was clear to anyone coming down the road that he was committed to that turn,’ said Ms Jones. ’He moved back to allow the bus more room. However, he has accepted he is at fault in relation to releasing his foot from the brake causing the lorry to move forward. It was Mr Billington who phoned the police immediately.’

He must pay £300 costs.