Martin Robert SAUNDERS · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 26 June 2023, I commenced an investigation into the death of Martin Robert SAUNDERS. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 23ᵗʰ. April 2025.

The conclusion of the inquest was Road Traffic Collision.

The medical cause of death was

1a Blunt Head Injury, including Basal Skull Fracture

These were recorded as follows:

Martin Robert Saunders, aged 48, died on A4059 New Road Mountain Ash, on 17ᵗʰ. June 2023, which is a 60 mph road, with laybys and bends, locally described as a dangerous road. Martin’s motorbike collided with a coach which had been making a right turn from a layby / parking area. A sweeping bend approaching the layby reduces visibility for those approaching or exiting it. Martin’s motorbike was not visible to the driver when he began his manoeuvre and Martin’s reaction time when faced with the coach was further reduced because he had been overtaking other vehicles on the approach to the layby. Despite best resuscitation efforts, Martin was declared deceased at the scene.

Conclusion: Road Traffic Collision

The collision occurred on the A4059, New Road, Mountain Ash near the exit of a parking bay located on the east side of the carriageway. The parking area can be busy. At the time of the collision, the speed limit on the road was 60 mph and there was no prohibition on making right turns from the layby. The combination of reduced visibility due to the bends in the road, speed and right turns across the carriageway increases the risk of road traffic collisions.

Changes are in progress to reduce the maximum speed limit but even allowing for this, I remain concerned there is a risk of future deaths occurring along this route unless action is taken, due to vehicles turning right across the carriageway from the layby on this stretch of road.