Kial Ryce Thurman · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 18th December 2023 an investigation was commenced into the death of Kial Ryce Thurman. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 2nd August 2024. The conclusion of the inquest was that Kial Ryce Thurman died in a road traffic collision on 1st December 2023.

Kial was driving a transit van at speed along the A518 in the Lower Loxley area of Staffordshire heading in the direction of Uttoxeter when he lost control while navigating a right-hand bend immediately before a bridge that crossed the River Blythe. Either because Kial over-corrected his steering, or because the van hit the nearside kerb and rebounded, the van entered the opposing carriageway and into the path of an HGV. The impact caused the van to enter the river. Kial suffered multiple injuries and died at the scene.

The rural, unlit road is governed by the national speed limit of 60 mph and narrows in both directions at the point of the bridge. Driving towards Uttoxeter, drivers are faced with a right-hand bend that the inquest heard can catch drivers unawares and has been the location of other road traffic accidents. The inquest heard that the bridge has been repaired a number of times as a consequence of collisions. Although the road has signs that warn drivers of the nature of the hazard ahead, a police collision expert considered that a reduction in the speed limit at this location would reduce the risk of collisions.

I am concerned that the national speed limit on the A518 at the point of the Blythe Bridge at Lower Loxley is too high and carries the risk of future deaths.