A man accused of a motorcycle hit-run that left a pedestrian with life-threatening injuries was disqualified at the time of the crash and had an extensive history of driving offences, a court heard on Wednesday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Joshua Abbott, 23, made an unsuccessful application for bail in the Bendigo Magistrates' Court after being charged on Tuesday with negligently causing serious injury, failing to remain at the scene of a collision and render assistance, and dangerous driving causing serious injury.
Detective Senior Constable Ben Oliver, from the Major Collision Investigation Unit, told the court Mr Abbott was disqualified at the time.
A 39-year-old man was struck on a walking track between McKenzie Street and Campaspe Esplanade on March 10.
More court news: Police officer fronts Bendigo court
Detective Senior Constable Ben Oliver said the victim remained in a critical but stable condition in the Royal Melbourne Hospital, and had not yet regained consciousness.
He described the outlook for the victim as bleak.
The court heard goggles and blood found at the scene linked Mr Abbott to the crash.
Magistrate Patrick Southey noted Mr Abbott promised to live with his mother, continue working and cease driving if he were to be released, but determined he had not demonstrated the exceptional circumstances necessary to secure bail.
"You're in a lot of trouble," Mr Southey said.
"It appears to be a very strong case."
More court news: Woman caught driving disqualified for third time
Mr Southey spoke of Mr Abbott's history of driving offences, including speeding, driving while disqualified and police pursuits.
It seemed to have been only a matter of time before Mr Abbott injured a member of the public, he said, which the evidence suggested had occurred.
He warned Mr Abbott he was facing a lengthy jail sentence.
Mr Southey determined Mr Abbott presented an unacceptable risk of endangering the public if he continued to drive, and said he was also at unacceptable risk of failing to answer bail.
He refused the application.
Mr Abbott, who appeared in court via video link, said he would lose his job.
"Fair dinkum Mr Abbott, that's the least of your concerns," Mr Southey said.
Mr Abbott was remanded in custody to appear in Bendigo Magistrates' Court on August 7 for a committal mention.
Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
