SA court told alleged hit-run driver Brian William Ross may not be fit to face charges over incident
AN ELDERLY, unwell, unlicensed driver accused of causing a hit-run crash may be physically and mentally unfit to face charges, a court has heard.
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AN ELDERLY, unwell, unlicensed driver accused of causing a hit-run crash may be physically and mentally unfit to face charges, a court has heard.
On Tuesday, the Adelaide Magistrates Court was asked to postpone Brian William Ross’ case pending reports from medical experts.
Michael Woods, for Ross, asked for a “generous” adjournment, saying the matter was complicated.
“I’m seeking some medical reports about fitness issues and other medical conditions,” he said.
“They will address whether this matter might go down alternative paths within the court system.
“It’s going to take some time.”
Ross, 72, of Unley, is charged with offences including aggravated driving without due care, failing to stop, driving disqualified, impeding an investigation and breaching bail.
It is alleged that, on July 18, he struck motorcyclist David Baker with his car, at the intersection of Hutt St and South Tce, and drove away.
Upon his arrest, the court heard he had not held a licence since 1987 — he was granted bail, only to be allegedly caught driving again nine days later.
It is further alleged that his dog attacked a police officer on that occasion.
Ross was granted bail a second time, but under strict home detention conditions with his two adult children serving as guarantors.
Mr Baker has told The Advertiser his sympathies were with Ross and his family, despite the debilitating injury he had suffered in the first incident.
On Tuesday, Mr Woods said he had “a list of ailments” suffered by his client, all of which would be assessed by the experts.
“We are going to need some time, realistically eight weeks,” he said.
“I’ve never let speed get in the way in these courts.”
Ross was remanded on continuing bail to face court again in November.
