Investigation and inquest
On 10th August 2015 I commenced I commenced an investigation into the death of Kevin David RITSON, aged 35 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest 27th June 2016. The conclusion of the inquest was:
1a) Multiple Injuries
Conclusion: Accident
Circumstances of the death
On the 4th August 2015 the deceased and a companion went for a motorcycle ride around Cumbria via Penrith and Barrow. Whilst heading homewards north on the A595, on a left hand bend at Stangrah Farm, the deceased lost control of his machine, crossing the central white line and came off and entered the verge on the offside of the road. He was airlifted to Preston Hospital where he died of unsurvivable injuries.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) The deceased was riding his motor bike through Stangrah Farm near Whitbeck. This had been the scene of an earlier accident damage from which had removed a chevron warning sign. It was clear from photographs that the road surface was not in good condition and holes had been patched. Evidence also showed the road surface adhesion to be below standard.