An OAP died after an 81-year-driver ploughed into her and a friend as they crossed a road.
John Macdonald only applied his brakes after he hit Jean Malcolmson and Mary Weir.
He pled guilty at Paisley Sheriff Court to causing death by driving "without due care and attention", the Daily Record reports.
The force of impact was such that the ladies were thrown into the air.
Mrs Malcolmson, 73, suffered fatal brain injuries and later died in hospital.
Prosecutor Harry Findlay told the court the incident took place on October 29 last year in Walkinshaw Street, Johnstone, at the junction with the Renfrewshire town's High Street.
He said the collision took place at 11.34am and left the women "more than a car length apart".
The emergency services were called and Macdonald told police officers he had been driving and was "visibly upset and shaken" by what had happened.
The court heard there was little damage to the car, other than some scuff marks around his registration plate.
She was rushed to Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital to receive treatment for her injuries.
Mr Findlay explained: "The complainer's skull was fractured. She had brain injuries which were not survivable, even with treatment.
"She passed away on November 2, 2020. The cause of death was head injuries as a result of a road traffic collision."
Barry Smith QC said: "Mr Macdonald is very anxious that today, at the first opportunity, I should formally record, on his behalf, his remorse regarding the fact that the accident did result in such tragic circumstances.
"He wishes me to formally tender his condolences to the family of Mrs Malcolmson."
After hearing that Macdonald had surrendered his driving licence, Sheriff Brian Mohan called for background reports to be prepared ahead of sentencing.
He said: "You have pleaded guilty to a matter which looks like a tragic accident.
"You offered help at the scene. But you'll appreciate that someone's life was lost as a result of this.
"I will decide on the next occasion what the appropriate sentence is."
Macdonald will be sentenced next month.
