Investigation and inquest
On 14th November 2013 I commenced an investigation into the death of Roger de Klerk
The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 2nd October 2014. The conclusion of the inquest was road traffic collision
Circumstances of the death
Some time just before noon on the 12th November 2013 the deceased was riding his bicycle along Cherry Orchard Road. After stopping at the lights he turned left into Addiscombe Road Travelling on the left hand side of moving traffic. The wheels of the bicycle came into contact with tramlines causing him to lose control and to fall sideways, landing on his right hand side, into the path of a bus travelling in the same direction. The bus driver had no time to take avoiding action or to stop before colliding with the deceased and his bicycle.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) Tramlines present a significant danger for cyclists, either by being caught in the lines or slipping on the metal, particularly in the wet.
(2) The design and appearance of the bicycle lane at the junction of Addiscombe Road and Cherry Orchard Road may cause confusion for cyclists who are apparently required to go on to the pavement before the junction in order to cross it safely. The cycle path continues into the junction so that cyclists turning left will be forced to parallel with the lines, rather than crossing at 90 degrees, which is safer.
(3) For cyclists who do go onto the pavement, the intended route goes over two tactile paving areas and involves contact with pedestrians crossing at the junction.
(4) The signage at the junction is confusing and appears to suggest that the tram route is a cycle route, yet the lines are frequently close to pavement at the junction and at other areas further along Addiscombe Road