Invergordon lorry driver’s death on A9 ‘unexplained’, Fatal Accident Inquiry finds
The cause of a lorry driver’s death in a crash on the A9 remains unexplained, a Fatal Accident Inquiry has heard.
Gordon Innes (58) died after his vehicle collided with the rear of a lorry carrying logs[2] at Skiach near Alness last year.
Sheriff Gary Aitken has concluded that Mr Innes may have been distracted or suffered ill-health “of unknown seriousness” before the crash at about 12.20pm on April 12, 2022.
His report stated: "The cause of the accident resulting in the death of said Gordon Innes was distraction or some other reason, which cannot be determined, by which said Gordon Innes failed to or was unable to react to the prevailing road and traffic conditions and he did not or could not prevent the lorry he was driving from colliding with the rear of a preceding lorry."
The FAI also concluded that “it cannot be determined whether there are precautions which might realistically have resulted in that accident being avoided” and recommendations were made.
Witnesses told the inquiry the lorry being driven by Mr Innes, employed by McDonald Scaffolding Services Ltd, did not slow down at a temporary red light when the crash occurred.
Emergency services attended at the scene and Mr Innes was taken to Raigmore Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
The occupants of the other vehicles were checked by ambulance staff at the scene and did not require hospital treatment.
The inquiry heard how a Police Scotland investigation has determined: “The cab was crushed so severely its state was not compatible with life for any person who had been within at the time of the collision.”
The FAI heard that Mr Innes was understood to have been of reasonable health, but had been prescribed a course of medication for high blood pressure shortly before his death.
The inquiry was also told he was regarded as an experienced driver by colleagues.
Mr Innes is survived by his parents, three siblings and two adult children.
Sheriff Aitken said: “His death is a tragedy which is no doubt still very keenly felt.”
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[3]References
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- ^ vehicle collided with the rear of a lorry carrying logs (www.inverness-courier.co.uk)
- ^ View our fact sheet on court reporting here (www.inverness-courier.co.uk)