Peter William Martin in court after Bruce Hwy crash that killed Emily Barnett

A 58-year-old man charged over a fatal Bruce Highway crash which killed a 21-year-old woman has had his day in court after being paralysed during the head-on accident.

A 58-year-old man charged over a fatal Bruce Highway crash which killed a 21-year-old Rockhampton woman was completely paralysed during the head-on accident, a court has heard.

Peter William Martin was charged with two counts of driving without due care and attention causing death or grievous bodily harm after the accident on the Bruce Highway near Midgee on May 29, last year.

Emily Barnett

Emily Barnett, 21, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.

Mr Martin’s lawyer Braden Milburn told Caloundra Magistrates Court the 58-year-old was “completely paralysed” after the head-on collision.

Emily Barnett's family left a heartbreaking tribute to her by the side of the Bruce Highway at the place where she lost her life. Picture: File

Mr Milburn said his client was in New South Wales and unable to travel to Caloundra for his court date.

He said Mr Martin’s condition would be reassessed to determine if he was able to travel when state borders opened on December 17.

Mr Milburn asked Magistrate Katherine Benson to adjourn the matter to January 19, 2022 when he said the matter could be set for a plea.

The court heard there was an outstanding warrant for Mr Martin.

Ms Benson adjourned the matter to January 19, 2022.