Bus driver trying to avoid conviction

A DUNEDIN GoBus driver is hoping to avoid a conviction for badly injuring a motorcyclist earlier this year.

The motorcyclist was dragged under a bus when it cut the corner at a controlled intersection in South Dunedin on March 5.

The collision, at the intersection of Richardson and Moreau Sts about 12.30pm, left the motorcyclist with a fractured elbow, multiple contusions to his shins, ankles and knees, crush injuries to several parts of his body and a severe concussion which continued to affect him, prosecutor Sergeant Chris George said.

Bus driver David Charles Bratton (48) appeared in the Dunedin District Court yesterday and admitted a charge of careless driving causing injury.

His counsel, Sam Wells, asked Judge Michael Crosbie not to enter a conviction as the defendant intended applying for a discharge without conviction. Bratton was remanded to August 7.

The motorcyclist had stopped in Moreau St, about 3m back from the solid yellow stop lines, waiting for the road to clear, when a bus driven by the defendant cut the corner as it turned right from Richardson St, Sgt George said.

It crossed the white intersection line entered the incorrect lane and collided with the motorcyclist.

Bratton was checking for approaching traffic rather than for vehicles on his right. A bus wheel hit the motorcycle.

The rider yelled and screamed at him to stop but the defendant did not hear and continued through the intersection as the victim was dragged under the bus. Bystanders helped the victim as he tried to push himself free.

Soon afterwards Bratton approached, apologising and telling the victim: ‘‘I need the whole road to get around here’’.

The victim was taken to hospital and treated for injuries.

When police spoke to Bratton he admitted entering the intersection at a 45degree angle and hitting the victim. He said he thought the way was clear.