The trial of an Angus driver accused of causing the death of a mum-of-two in a fatal collision has been delayed.
Jennifer Chalmers (53) died after her scooter was involved in a collision with a Land Rover Freelander on January 25 last year on Stonehaven’s Arduthie Road at its junction with Westfield Road.
John Cameron (52), Lubbock Park, Brechin, pleaded not guilty to a charge of death by careless driving at Stonehaven Sheriff Court last month.
The case had been due to proceed to trial in the next few weeks, but a new date in June has now been fixed following a delay to allow the defence more time to prepare.
Defence agent Ronaldo Renucci asked the court to postpone the date as a new expert report had become available which had not yet been lodged as a defence production.
Mr Renucci told the court he wished to consult with the expert before submitting the report and needed time for ”further investigation”. He added there had also been a delaying in the granting of legal aid for his client.
Cameron is accused of driving without due care and attention and exiting the junction ”without paying proper attention”.
The court was told at a previous hearing that an ”extensive accident reconstruction report” totalling 45 pages was available and 16 witnesses were lined up if the case proceeds to trial.
Sheriff Peter Hammond described the delay as ”unsatisfactory” but said that it was ”not a matter for which Mr Cameron could be criticised”.
Ms Chalmers, of Farrochie Park, Stonehaven, died as she made her way to join her partner Allan Annat for a meal at his home in Arduthie Road.
Mr Annat, a father-of-two, had been preparing their tea when he was told about the accident only yards away.
She was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary but died from her injuries.
The couple met through his veterinary practice.
Ms Chalmers formerly worked at Cardhaven in the town centre.
She was still working from home hand-making cards and silver jewellery.
She helped out with the dog rescue charity Dawgs and also the Brooke horse charity.