Road (Highways Safety) related deaths

Noted (AI summary) The Department for Transport will examine what more could be done to ensure the roadworthiness of tractors, trailers and coupling devices and will investigate how best to raise awareness of the DVSA's published guidance on maintaining roadworthiness and vehicle loading, as well as of the existing voluntary trailer maintenance scheme. The NFU provides information and guidance to its members via its website, Business Guides, the British Farmer and Grower magazine, and electronic newsletters, and regularly highlights the importance of tractor and trailer maintenance when communicating with its members. HSE outlines its role as Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety and highlights that the health and safety legislative framework and associated guidance is sufficient and clear in its requirement to use equipment suitable for the task that is maintained in a safe condition. The AEA and BAGMA would support proposals for change from the Department for Transport including extending mandatory roadworthiness testing to vehicles travelling below 25mph and requiring failsafe breakaway systems on all trailers.

Noted (AI summary) The Department for Transport acknowledges the concerns, explains the driver licensing renewal process for those over 70, and mentions a 2023 call for evidence on driver licensing for people with medical conditions, the analysis of which is ongoing, with potential changes to the legislative framework to follow. The DVLA acknowledges receipt of the coroner's report and extends condolences, stating that a full response, agreed with the Department for Transport, will be sent by the Secretary of State for Transport.

Noted (AI summary) TfL intends to implement a permanent pedestrian crossing scheme at the A4/Jersey Road junction in Hounslow by 2026, including signal-controlled crossings. In the interim, temporary customer information signage warning pedestrians to take care when crossing the road will be installed by January 2025. The Department for Transport states that Transport for London (TfL) is responsible for traffic management on its roads, including the pedestrian crossing at issue. The DfT says no consent is required from the Department to enable TfL to make changes to this site, and funding will come from TfL revenue sources. The London Borough of Hounslow is working with TfL to improve traffic conditions on the A4, especially for vulnerable road users. Proposals are being considered for signal-controlled crossings for pedestrians and cyclists across the A4 and Jersey Road, with construction planned for 2026-27, along with interim temporary signage.

Noted (AI summary) Stockport Council has permanently affixed reflective panels and tape to barriers in parks, including Alexandra Park (completed November 21st, 2024), and will complete remaining work by March 31st, 2025. They also audited lighting and found it compliant with BS5489 standards, and will do remedial work by March 31st, 2025 if needed. The Department of Transport states that the matter of barrier visibility is the responsibility of the local highway authority (Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council). They provided references to relevant guidance and legislation.

Noted (AI summary) National Highways acknowledges the concerns but states that funding constraints require prioritizing bridge upgrades based on the number of suicide-related incidents, and there are currently no plans to increase the parapet fence height at the specified footbridge. They will continue to monitor and assess all locations in the North West. Salford City Council states that the bridge structure is a National Highways asset, and they will assist with traffic management if needed.

Noted (AI summary) Staffordshire County Council reviewed the road layout and collision history, consulted colleagues, and assessed traffic speed. They believe the existing safety features are sufficient and note a future bridge replacement proposal depends on funding.

Noted (AI summary) The DVLA acknowledges the coroner's concerns, explains the current driver licensing requirements, and states that their processes and policies are kept under review. They mention a call for evidence to gather views on the medical driver licensing process, and the responses are being analyzed.

Noted (AI summary) The Department of Transport acknowledges the coroner's concerns regarding cluster sites and GPS routing but states that decisions about highways maintenance and enforcement are the responsibility of local authorities and that drivers should prioritise road signage over GPS guidance. Cambridgeshire County Council plans to implement a 30mph speed limit (with 40mph buffer zones) on Puddock Road by the end of November 2024, conduct a traffic flow survey in early November 2024, and undertake informal engagement on road closure/restricted access, followed by a formal Traffic Regulation Order application and consultation.

Noted (AI summary) Surrey County Council acknowledges the coroner's concerns regarding vegetation encroachment and inspection frequency. They state that pavements are for pedestrians, not cyclists, and that the inspection regime is in line with their responsibilities and national guidance. They will, however, remind the inspection team to consider the risk to vulnerable users posed by debris.