A 39 year-old motorcyclist from Ventimiglia has appeared in court in connection with an accident in July last year, in which a man in his nineties was hit on a pedestrian crossing, local French daily Monaco Matin reports.

The defendant told the court that a lack of visibility caused the accident and that the victim was running at the time.

However, the prosecuting counsel told the court that the victim was in the middle of the crossing when he was hit and was thrown up into the air before landing violently. The culprit had not slowed down, the court was told.

The victim was taken to Princess Grace Hospital and received treatment over several months.

After hearing the arguments, the tribunal decided on a 1,000-euro fine and a damages to the victim of 18,000 euros.