A driver who caused others to take evasive action when he sped through traffic attacked motorcyclists in a road rage incident.

Robert McBeath, 45, assaulted one biker during the violent confrontation after seeing red when his erratic dangerous driving was challenged. 

Norwich Magistrates’ Court was told he repeatedly punched one of the bikers who grabbed his steering wheel to prevent him driving off before police arrived.

Paul Brown, prosecuting, said he also grabbed and damaged a rider’s helmet and flung a helmet intercom system into a nearby field after accusing the bikers of having head-cams that had been filming him.

McBeath had undertaken other motorists during high speed erratic driving on the main roadMcBeath had undertaken other motorists during high speed erratic driving on the main road (Image: Google)

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He had been driving a Seat Leon at speed on Dereham Road in Norwich prior to the incident on June 26 last year.

Other motorists were forced to brake to avoid crashing as he undertook other vehicles, said Mr Brown.  

McBeath, of Morse Road in Norwich, pleaded guilty to assault and driving without due care and attention. 

He also admitted criminal damage after repeatedly hitting one of the motorcycles by opening his car door.

The court was told he had previous convictions for violence, assaults and driving offences.

McBeath was given nine points on his driving licenceMcBeath was given nine points on his driving licence (Image: Newsquest)

Brian Earley, chairman of the bench of magistrates, said he had a “shameful pattern of entrenched road rage behaviour”. 

“You are a danger on the road,” he said.

He added: “Your record is lamentable and your actions on this occasion were disgraceful anger at others who, in your view, had the temerity to raise issues with your driving.” 

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McBeath was sentenced to a two year community order including requirements to complete rehabilitation and 120 hours unpaid work.

He was given nine points on his licence and must also pay fines and costs of £864 and £400 compensation. 

Lisa Robinson, mitigating, said he was the carer for his elderly mother and losing his driving licence would impact his work as a building contractor.

“The probation report indicates a change in tone to address these issues,” she added.