Investigation and inquest
On 15th August 2014 I commenced an investigation into the death of Thomas Ian Hunt, age 19 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 8th January 2015. The conclusion of the inquest was Accident.
Circumstances of the death
On the morning of 10th August 2014 the weather was extremely wet. At about 10.30am a Volkswagen Lupo driven by Thomas Hunt came into collision with a Renault Clio driven by ████████ Thomas was driving his vehicle in a northerly direction along the B1192 when he lost control of his vehicle on a compound left bend in the village of Brothertoft, colliding with the Renault Clio which was in its own lane of the carriage way. Both vehicles were travelling at similar speeds at the time of the collision. The sub-optimal condition of the road surface contributed to Thomas's loss of control. Although resuscitation attempts continued for some time after Thomas was extricated from his vehicle, it is likely that he died shortly after the collision.
Coroner’s concerns
1 During the inquest evidence was presented describing how there have been a number of non-injury collisions at the scene of the collision where Thomas died. These would not have been recorded on the local authority's database. The national speed limit of 60mph applies to the B1192 as it passes through Brothertoft village. Evidence was presented to the effect that a 50mph limit would be more appropriate given that the B1192, as it passes through Brothertoft, is bordered by residential properties and farm entrances.