Evanton motorist (19) gets jail warning after driving over man’s legs in Easter Ross town
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AN Easter Ross motorist drove off at speed, dragging a passenger who was still holding on to the door handle along the road.
Robert McLaren ignored George Williamson's cries to stop as the Transit ran over his right leg before the 19 year old then turned his vehicle round and ran over both of Mr Williamson's legs.
Inverness Sheriff Court was told that Mr Williamson had been speaking to McLaren about the possibility of some work and placed his wallet and phone on the centre seat.
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Fiscal depute Pauline Gair told Sheriff David Harvie: "He was in the van for a few moments before getting back out to talk to his brother at which point the accused drove forward at speed.
"George Williamson held on to the open door to regain his possessions, which he did. He was then dragged along for about 50m with his feet on the ground and arms outstretched, shouting at the accused to stop.
"He then fell to the ground due to releasing his hold on the door and at this point he felt the van go over his right leg.
"The van drove away and George Williamson lay on his back on the road screaming in pain, asking for help.”
"He then looked up and saw the accused within the van turn and come back towards him at speed, driving over his legs near the ankles," Mrs Gair went on.
McLaren admitted driving dangerously in Gordon Terrace, Invergordon on April 20, 2023 and causing serious injury, permanent disfigurement and permanent impairment to Mr Williamson.
Mrs Gair added that he suffered pelvic, back and shoulder injuries and required surgery to a fractured ankle. Metal pins had to be inserted.
The court heard McLaren, of Mackenzie Court, Evanton, was traced to Swordale Road, Evanton and admitted to police he had been driving the van.
Sheriff Harvie deferred sentence until May 7 for a background report and a restriction of liberty order assessment.
But he warned McLaren that despite his young age: "You are in a serious position, given the nature of the offence and all options remain open to the court."
He also imposed an interim disqualification on McLaren.
McLaren also pleaded guilty to failing to report an accident to police and refusing to supply a blood sample to officers following his arrest.
