Investigation and inquest
I commenced an investigation into the death of Matthew James Rouch on 29th September 2021. It concluded on 18th October 2022 following an inquest.
Circumstances of the death
These were recorded as :-
Matthew Rouch was aged 41 when on 29th September 2021 he was fatally injured on the A48 near Cowbridge. He was on a stretch of the road with a relatively new junction and layout. It is more likely than not that Matthew approached the new roundabout too quickly, and despite braking in reaction and trying to steer, he lost control of his motorbike and collided with the roundabout. Despite the extensive efforts of various medical professionals on scene within moments, Matthew did not survive the catastrophic multiple injuries he had sustained.
Conclusion: road traffic collision
Coroner’s concerns
(1) The A48 ‘Forage roundabout junction’ seems to be dangerous.
(2) Unless changes are made to make all road users more aware of this junction and to slow down drivers approaching it from every direction, more deaths may occur.