Thomas Wallace · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 25th April 2016 an investigation was commenced into the death of Thomas Wallace, aged 47. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 24th November 2016. The conclusion was accidental death and the facts were that at 1400 hours on 23rd April 2016, Thomas Wallace was riding his Motorbike on the A682 at Long Preston towards Gisburn. At this time a car pulled out of an unclassified track leading from Knowles Cottages into the path of Mr Wallace’s motorcycle. A collision occurred and Mr Wallace was pronounced life extinct at the scene.

At 1400 hours on 23rd April 2016, Thomas Wallace was riding his motorcycle on the A682 at Long Preston in the direction of Gisburn. ████████ which are accessed by a lane from the A682. At this time ████████ was driving her car and was stationary at the junction with the A682, having driven down the lane from her cottage. There were no vehicles in sight as she pulled out of the junction intending to turn right. As she was midway across the road, Mr Wallace, on his motorcycle, collided with ████████ car. As a result of the collision Mr Wallace suffered serious multiple injuries and died at the scene.

(1) The layout of the junction affords an extremely restricted view of traffic on the A682.
(2) The solid wall running alongside the A682, contributes to the restricted view of the traffic on the A682.
(3) The signage on the A682 regarding the junction with the lane down to Knowles cottages is very limited.
(4) There is a staggered junction sign where there appears to be a cross roads.
(5) The national speed limit signs placed immediately after the junction are visible in advance of being able to see the junction.