Ross Neville pleaded not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving at a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court, shortly before Christmas.
He is accused of causing the death of Matthew Oliver Newton by driving a Ford Raptor dangerously on the A69, at Throckley, near Newcastle, on Thursday November 28.
It follows a single vehicle collision on the dual carriageway close to the Throckley junction, west of Newcastle, at 11.30pm that day.
(Image: Northumbria Police) Police received a report that a grey Ford Raptor car was travelling westbound when it left the road.
Emergency services attended the scene and the passenger, Mr Newton, was found to have sustained serious injuries.
The 28-year-old motor trader, from the Carlisle area, was confirmed dead at the scene.
(Image: Northumbria Police) An investigation was launched by Northumbria Police into the circumstances of the collision.
The 34-year-old defendant of Canonbie, in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, was subsequently arrested and charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
He appeared back before the court at a further hearing in the case today (Wednesday January 8), when a fixed trial date was agreed for a hearing of up to five days, starting on February 9, next year.
The defendant was told a signed defence statement must be submitted to the court by April 16 and he should attend a further case management hearing, on May 16.
Judge Julie Clemitson agreed to grant bail to the defendant, who has spent 39 days in custody since his arrest.
He was told he should come to court for the next hearing, in May, and then the trial, next February, which Judge Clemitson said could proceed in his absence if he failed to attend.
Following Mr Newton’s death, the Northumbria force issued a tribute on behalf of his family, who were said to be, “heartbroken”.
It stated: “Matthew was too good for his own good, 28-years-old with his whole life ahead of him.
“Loved and adored son of Anna and Mike, kindest and best big brother to George and Alexis and idolised grandson of David and Valerie.
“Matthew was very proud of his business he started and built up, Cumbria Motor Trading.
“It was, in his words: ‘Flat out busy’.
“Matthew lived his life to the absolute fullest and had the best friends anyone could wish for.
“He was an amazing human who would do anything for anyone.
“Our house is far too quiet now without him.
“When Matthew was in a room, we all knew it!
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“Matthew’s life will always be celebrated by his family and all that knew him.
“He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered for his beautiful personality, his kindest heart and his dazzling smile.
“We all love you Matthew X.”