Trevor Carmen, 41, now of Warrnambool, appeared in Warrnambool Magistrates Court on Monday where he made a self-represented bail application.

He told the court he went for a walk and never returned to the Alfred Hospital because he was confused, and not because he was attempting to flee police custody.

He called his friend, Kristy Lamaro, to give evidence that she would support him and provide a roof over his head if he was released on bail.

Ms Lamaro said she had known Mr Carmen for about five years and had picked him up from Werribee after he left the hospital following the May 27 collision.

Magistrate John Lesser said the accused was eligible for bail by a "very small, half head".

He said he was convinced Ms Lamaro would support the accused and get him the medical treatment he needed.

"You've only got one shot so make sure you don't muck it up," he said.

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Mr Carmen was released on bail with strict conditions, including he reside at a static address, report to Warrnambool police three times a week and attend the emergency department for a medical check-up.

He was arrested on Friday after a month-long police search and faces 23 charges, including theft of a motor vehicle, driving while qualified, handling stolen goods, reckless conduct endangering life, drug driving and weapon-related offences.

Warrnambool police Senior Constable Chris Kelly said on May 27 Mr Carmen was driving a white Toyota Hiace van south on the Hopkins Highway toward Warrnambool about 5.30am.

He said the accused drifted into the north-bound lane and collided with a sedan.

The van tipped onto its roof, ejecting Mr Carmen through the front windscreen. He was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition.

Senior Constable Kelly said a search of the van located registration plates believed to be stolen from Brunswick, Hampton Park and Endeavour Hills, as well as tools stolen during a burglary at Dennington.

He said Mr Carmen's licence was disqualified earlier that month due to drug driving.

He said the accused was drug tested following the accident and police were waiting toxicology results.

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