Caravan park manager death trial begins

A woman accused of killing a caravan park manager by knocking her down with a car thought her path was clear, a Perth court has heard.

Katie Walkerley, 46, has pleaded not guilty in the West Australian Supreme Court, on a charge of the manslaughter of 59-year-old Rita Maria Addenbrooke in February last year.

The court heard on Monday that Walkerley had attended a dinner party at the Kingsway Tourist Park in Madeley, in Perth's north, when she argued with someone.

In his opening address, prosecutor Barry Murray said an angry Walkerley got into her car and turned the music loud.

She then began to drive away and did not stop when Ms Addenbrooke - who had left her residence after hearing what she thought was a domestic disturbance - stepped in front of the vehicle.

Mr Murray said Walkerley later told police Ms Addenbrooke had put her hands on the bonnet before she nudged forward and said to herself, "you're in the way".

Walkerley told police Ms Addenbrooke had moved to the side of the car, which gave her a clear path, Mr Murray said.

Walkerley, who was not speeding, then drove over a speed hump and through a boom gate, damaging the car, the court heard.

Ms Addenbrooke, who suffered from multiple sclerosis and needed a walking stick, died in hospital two days later from her head injuries.

Mr Murray told the jury they could find Walkerley guilty if they believed she had deliberately hit Ms Addenbrooke or had been negligent with her driving.

Defence lawyer Jim Brash said it was "a tragic accident".

The trial continues.