Luke Mumford · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 29th of November 2016 I commenced an investigation into the death of Luke Mumford, aged 20. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on the 15th of February 2017. The conclusion of the inquest was Road Traffic Collision.

At approximately 17.30 on the 23rd of November 2016, Luke Mumford was driving his motor car along Pilgrim's Way, north of Eccles, Kent when he left the carriageway, traversed up a 3 metre bank, struck a tree and came to rest 13 metres further on in a field. He sustained extensive head injuries from which he died at the scene. He had not consumed any alcohol or drugs and the reason why he had left the carriageway could not be ascertained.

At the point at which Mr Mumford left the carriageway, Pilgrim's Way is a dual carriageway but more accurately should be described as a narrow single carriageway in each direction separated by a foliage verge. It is unlit at night and passes through a rural area and is comparable to a country lane. The speed limit however is 70 mph.

(1) The nature of the road is such that it is unsafe to drive at 70 mph in that

i) The carriageway is very narrow
ii) The road is unlit at night
iii) The road is not bordered by any kerb or pavement but rather hedgerows and trees

iv) At Inquest the evidence of a Police Pursuit Driver and Accident Collision Investigator was that they had felt unsafe traversing the road above 50 mph.