Mitica Mihaita Ladunca · Prevention of Future Deaths report

An inquest into the death of Mitica Mihaita Ladunca was opened on 19 November 2019. It was resumed and concluded on 8 June 2020.

The medical cause of death was found to have been:

1a. Adult respiratory distress syndrome AND cerebral infarction
1b. Multiple traumatic injuries
2. Pulmonary tuberculosis

The inquest concluded with a short form conclusion of ‘Road Traffic Collision’.

On 10 October 2019 Mr Ladunca attempted to cross the northbound lane of the A322 in Surrey approximately 425m north of Junction 3.

For reasons which remain unknown Mr Ladunca misjudged the situation and unintentionally stepped into the path of a DAF XF 460 articulated large vehicle, resulting in fatal injuries. He died at St. George’s Hospital on 8 November 2019.

At the collision location there is an asphalt pathway, approximately 1 metre wide, across the central reservation and a gap in the pressed steel barrier. At this point, the kerb drops on both sides of the carriageway for approximately 2.7 metres. This path links to Swift Lane which is staggered across both carriageways. On the southbound side of the carriageway Swift Lane leads to Bagshot Community Recycling Centre and a static home and caravan site for the Traveller Community. On the northbound carriageway side of the carriageway, via a footpath, Swift lane leads to Whitmoor Road and a number of residential properties.

During the course of the inquest I received evidence from DC Bloomfield, a Collision Investigator for Surrey Police. He gave evidence that the crossing is uncontrolled and that there is no signage warning drivers that pedestrians may be attempting to cross the road in either direction.

Whilst the absence of any signage did not contribute to the particular circumstances of Mr Ladunca’s death, I am concerned that it may give rise to a risk of future deaths.

- There is an absence of signage warning drivers on the A322 that there is a crossing point for pedestrians which links to Swift Lane across both carriageways.
- Consideration should be given to introducing such signage.