Police on Monday sent papers to prosecutors on the incoming coach of the Japanese men's national volleyball team for allegedly causing a road accident that seriously injured a man in Hiroshima Prefecture last November.
Yuichi Nakagaichi, 49, is suspected of negligence in allegedly hitting a 41-year-old traffic guard while driving on the Chugoku Expressway in the city of Shobara on Nov. 9, police said.
In December, the Japan Volleyball Association reprimanded Nakagaichi, who is set to take over the role of national team coach this spring.
Nakagaichi told the police he mistakenly applied the brake of his car, causing it to skid and plow into the victim, according to police officers.
"I am sorry for causing a serious injury due to carelessness," Nakagaichi was quoted as saying.