Bus driver who ran a red light and hit OAP avoids a prison term

Victim needed series of operations to save his leg

- COURT REPORTER

A bus driver who went through a red light and hit an elderly pedestrian has narrowly avoided prison.

The 77-year-old male victim endured “numerous” operations to save his leg following the crash in Hamilton town centre.

Norman Hamilton, 58, of Skylands Rise, Hamilton, was ordered to carry out unpaid work, given an electronic tag and banned from driving for five years.

He admitted causing the victim severe injury, lasting scars and permanent impairment by driving dangerously on Townhead Street on March 14 last year.

Danielle McDonald, prosecuting, told Hamilton Sheriff Court the collision happened around 10.30am when Hamilton was driving a bus with passengers.

The traffic light had been at red for nine seconds when he drove through the pedestrian crossing.