Coroner Expresses Signage Concerns After Fatal Cyclist Accident

Following a fatal collision involving a cyclist and a lorry, a coroner has expressed apprehension regarding the signage at a heavily trafficked roundabout in Hull. Gary Dunn, aged 47, suffered immediate fatal injuries in the incident that occurred at the intersection of Stoneferry Road and Ferry Lane in December of the previous year. Area Coroner Lorraine Harris has authored a Prevention of Future Deaths report, advocating for additional road markings and signage to assist cyclists in traversing the junction. This report has been submitted to both Hull City Council and National Highways. The council stated its intention to “carefully review the evidence provided by the coroner”. During an inquest conducted last week, it was revealed that Mr. Dunn was en route to college and positioned on the nearside of the lorry, with the intention of proceeding straight across the roundabout. However, he “rode into the path” of the vehicle as its driver executed a left turn. The coroner remarked: “The CCTV seems to indicate he simply does not appreciate the lorry is turning left and he carries on his route which takes him in front of the LGV [large goods vehicle].” Mr. Dunn’s death was attributed to severe head injuries. Information presented to the court indicated that the road’s configuration had been altered shortly before the incident, permitting the use of the centre lane for left turns. In her report, Ms. Harris noted that a Serious Collision Investigation Officer had previously voiced concerns regarding the signage present at the roundabout. She stated that despite the presence of signs indicating that vehicles could turn left from the centre lane, “the officer felt there was insufficient actual road signage to assist road users in how the roundabout can be navigated.” The coroner further observed that significant traffic volumes on the route frequently resulted in “markings on the road are often obscured.” Furthermore, she mentioned the availability of a combined cycle and pedestrian path, equipped with a Toucan crossing adjacent to the roundabout. However, evidence suggested “that there was inappropriate signage to instruct cyclists that this route was available.” A spokesperson for the council issued a statement: “The council would like to offer its deepest condolences to the family of Gary Dunn. “The council notes that the coroner has made observations to the council, upon which it is seeking a response by 28 January 2025. “The council will carefully review the evidence provided to the coroner and the coroner’s request before responding formally as requested.”