A Highland man is to go on trial accused of causing the death of another local motorist by dangerous driving.
Arran MacRae, 20, is accused of pursuing Angus Plowman on a Black Isle road, racing him, carrying out a series of overtaking manoeuvres, driving at excessive speed and being too close to the rear of his car.
It is alleged that both drivers lost control of their vehicles before they collided in January last year, with Mr Plowman’s car then travelling up an embankment and smashing into a fence and a gate.
Mr Plowman, who was from Fortrose and also 20, was taken to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness with serious head injuries after the incident, but he later died.
MacRae, of Buchanan Court in Dingwall, denied causing his death when he appeared in the dock at the High Court in Glasgow yesterday.
His defence counsel Emma Toner said MacRae, who is on bail, was pleading not guilty, and added: “We are ready for trial.”
The Lord Justice Clerk, Lady Dorrian, set the trial diet for November 28 at the High Court in Edinburgh.
The collision happened on the A832 at Rosehaugh, between Avoch and Munlochy, on January 4 last year.
The road was closed for several hours after the incident as road policing experts studied the scene.
An air ambulance was initially called but was stood down before arriving.
Mr Plowman, who was known as Gus, worked as a driver for Inverness-based Highland Motor Parts, having previously attended Fortrose Academy.
After his death, flowers were left at the scene of the incident and dozens of friends and colleagues paid tribute to him on social media, describing him as the “nicest” man they had met.
One said: “Absolutely heartbreaking news today. RIP Gus. You were such a lovely, genuine guy who will never be forgotten.
“I can’t believe you have been taken at such a young age. Life is just so unfair.”
Another friend said: “One of the nicest boys I’ve ever met. Always had a smile on your face and were always making me laugh.
“Going to miss you. Thoughts are with your family, RIP Gus.”
One post read: “Can’t believe what I’m hearing. You’ll be missed by many.”
