AN inquest into the death of a Calne man who died following a collision with a BMW in Derry Hill last year, has concluded he was killed whilst trying to cross the 'dangerous' stretch of road at Studley Crossroads.
Michael Beaven, 80, of Braemor Road in Calne, died after a collision with a BMW on the A4 New Road at Studley Crossroads, at about 6.45pm on 7th February 2023.
Mr Beaven had spent the afternoon in The Bridge House pub in Chippenham before getting the bus back to Calne. He was hit by a BMW as he was crossing the busy road on his way to his son's house in the village.
An inquest into his death took place yesterday, 13th March, where it was heard Mr Beaven had suffered blunt force trauma in the crash and, despite the best efforts of both members of the public and paramedics, he died at the scene.
The inquest heard that in the opinion of a Forensic Collision Investigator, a lack of visibility was a key factor in the collision and the driver of the BMW, Mrs Flower, would not have been able to avoid hitting Mr Beaven. Tests showed she had not exceeded the speed limits and had tested negative for drink and drugs.
Mr Beaven had attempted to cross directly opposite the bus stop rather than the nearby pedestrian crossings. Although Mr Beaven had been at a pub that afternoon, CCTV footage showed he was steady on his feet and walking at a 'good pace'.
A full crash reconstruction found that lack of visibility was due to the darkness of the evening coupled with the fact Mr Beaven was wearing dark, non-reflective clothing.
Residents of Derry Hill have been calling for a change to the 'accident blackspot' junction which has 'insufficient lighting' and an unsuitable speed limit of 50mph.
Area Coroner, Ian Singleton, recorded a conclusion of road traffic collision.
In a statement released last year by Michael's family, his family said: “He was a father of three - Louise, Craig, Katie - and two wonderful grandchildren, Tyler and Harvey.
“He was born in Devizes and lived in Calne for his entire life. He was liked by many and known as a kind man who was willing to help anyone.
“Michael worked as a BP pipeline engineer until he was 50 and lived the last 30 years enjoying life.
“He was well known from earlier days drinking in the Liberal Club in Calne, and in his later years, spending his free time in the afternoon in Wetherspoons in Chippenham.
“He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”
Michael is survived by his siblings Sally, Suzie, Pete and John, who all live locally.
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