Matthew Xuereb was charged with seriously injuring Nigel Debono, from Zurrieq, and causing permanent damage to his health while driving a vehicle recklessly.

Debono, who was riding a skateboard when the accident happened at around midnight on Friday, suffered injuries to his neck and one of his arms.

Xuereb was also charged with failing to make an official report of the accident and not slowing down and

signalling before turning a corner.

The accused pleaded not guilty to all the charges made against him.

Presiding magistrate Lawrence Quintano granted the defendant bail against a personal guarantee of Lm1,000.

Inspector Joseph Agius prosecuted while Dr Franco Debono appeared for the defence.