The accused, Antonio José M.R., faces a seven-year prison sentence and a 15,000 euro compensation, requested by the Prosecution, for reckless driving and injury charges. During the trial, presided over by magistrate Pilar Parejo, the former driver claimed to have acted under «panic» and «fear», seeking to protect the passengers of line 8.
According to his testimony, the incident began when the motorcyclist insulted him and repeatedly cut in front of the bus, forcing sudden brakes. The driver also claimed to have been assaulted on the arm and was unaware of the run-over until a passenger informed him. His lawyer, José Luis Luri, requested his acquittal, arguing a lack of intent.
“"I didn't even notice"
The victim, for his part, offered a contradictory version, stating that the bus driver made an abrupt maneuver at a traffic light and, after a reproach, began to invade his lane. The motorcyclist tried to escape but was hit and trapped under the vehicle, suffering multiple rib fractures and a punctured lung.
Officers from the Local Police and National Police confirmed a prior argument and that the vehicle encroached on the opposite lane. Police experts ruled out a «loss of control», indicating that the bus's maneuver was «continuous and progressive», and some witnesses suggested the turn was intentional.
“"He performed an unnecessary and intentional maneuver"
The Prosecution, represented by Cecilia Acebal, maintains the request for seven years in prison and a five-year driving license suspension. The private prosecution, led by lawyer Carlos Santana, raises the request to ten years in prison for attempted homicide and 97,500 euros in compensation.
