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Investigation and inquest
On 20 December 2022 I commenced an investigation into the death of Walter FAULDER. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest . The conclusion of the inquest was Death due to Road Traffic Collision and the medical cause of death was 1a Multiple Injuries
Circumstances of the death
Walter Faulder BEM was an 88 year old gentleman who lived alone in Wigton, Cumberland. He had recently been discharged from hospital.
On Saturday 10th December 2022, Walter's daughter visited his address and there was a Cranston’s shopping bag next to his chair. He said he had got the bus to Orton Grange (where the shop is) and back which raised alarm bells to his daughter. She asked him not to do this journey again as it is unsafe. Walter stated that he believes there is a pelican crossing to assist him crossing the road (A595). This is not the case at Orton Grange.
On Tuesday 13th December 2022, Walter has got the 400 bus at 16:10 hours from Wigton and got off at Orton Grange. Walter has forgotten his wallet and crossed the road to the middle island and continued onto the South-West carriageway. He then collided with a vehicle, causing him to fall into the chevrons in the middle of the road. At the time of the collision it was nearly dark and the road was busy with a steady flow of traffic in both directions moving at normal speed.
Walter was given first aid at scene, however he was pronounced deceased at scene in the rear of the ambulance at 17:20 hours.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) Walter seems to have believed that as a pedestrian he had right of way, he may have been a bit confused having forgotten his wallet however the day before the collision be referred to the illuminated pole in the central refuge as a Belisha Beacon.
(2) I heard that this is a busy crossing point, schoolchildren cross morning and evening for busses too and from school. There are also an increasing number of older people living in nearby developments.
(3) I am concerned that without safety alterations further accidents and possible fatalities may occur. Is there a case for lights to be installed?
Information checked against the published report and official responses