Investigation and inquest
On 17th December 2018 I commenced an investigation into the death of Ray Ronald Westlake.
On 14th December 2018 I commenced an investigation into the death of Barry Malcolm Clow
The investigations concluded at the end of the 2 inquests on 21st May 2019
The conclusion of both inquests were: Road Traffic Collision.
The medical cause of death in both circumstances was 1a) Multiple Injuries
Circumstances of the death
On 9th December 2018 Mr Clow was driving along the A424 towards Stow in the Wold. In the vicinity of Upper Rissington he lost control of his car and collided with a vehicle coming in the opposite direction. Mr Westlake was a passenger in the second vehicle. Both Mr Clow and Mr Westlake died at the scene from their injuries
Coroner’s concerns
The evidence that I heard was that it had been raining on that day and there were large areas of standing water and running water throughout this stretch of the A424. I am told that there are features in the side of the road (grips) which are dug out to encourage the water to run away but these are regularly overwhelmed. The evidence from other motorists and local residents is that this is a significant problem for motorists, especially those who do not know this stretch of road. Whilst it may not be possible to ensure that the water runs away I was surprised as was the Police Collision Investigator that there were no signs warning motorists for the potential for this area to flood.
I am concerned that if this situation continues, future lives will be put at risk in the same way.