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Cyclist killed after he rode into back of van
A CYCLIST crashed into the back of a van and died from head injuries after an overtaking manoeuvre at the bottom of a hill.
An inquest heard 29-year-old Lee James Busst went around a Renault Megane in Alder Road, Poole, as it slowed for a pedestrian crossing.
Mr Busst, a security officer, tried to brake and undertake a van that had already stopped but went over the handlebars and head-first into the strongest part of a rear door.
The peak of his cycle helmet shattered and he died from a brain haemorrhage the next day. His family decided to donate his organs.
The accident happened near the junction with South Park Road as Mr Busst was cycling to work at Poole Hospital from his home in Cove Road, Ensbury Park, at 2.40pm on April 1.
Driving instructor Christopher Matthews was behind Mr Busst and told Bournemouth Coroner's Court: "I have seen cyclists overtake me down that hill at 40mph. He was doing 20 to 25mph."
A statement from witness Laurence Elliot said: "I thought a car had collided with another car because the bang was so loud."
Mr Elliot's statement added that the van was marked "One Call" and that the driver "made no effort to get out of the vehicle" immediately after the crash, and later drove off from the scene.
Coroner Sheriff Payne said: "The van driver was subsequently contacted by police and it's my understanding procedures are contemplated, but he was in no way responsible for what happened."
He recorded a verdict of accidental death.
Mr Busst's fiancée Elizabeth Davis, an auxiliary nurse at Poole Hospital, told the inquest they were due to be married in July.
Accident investigator Sgt James Almond said Mr Busst's mountain bike was in good condition and noted a 6.75m-long tyre mark where Mr Busst had tried to brake.
7:00pm Wednesday 6th August 2008
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CommentPosted by: sky1, Dorset on 9:40am Thu 7 Aug 08
What a tragic accident - I only hope that his family get some consolation from the fact that Lee was able to help others through organ donation - his mother sent a lovely message when a friend of mine had a motorcycle crash, I only wish things could have worked out differently for her - may Lee rest in peace
What a tragic accident - I only hope that his family get some consolation from the fact that Lee was able to help others through organ donation - his mother sent a lovely message when a friend of mine had a motorcycle crash, I only wish things could have worked out differently for her - may Lee rest in peace
Posted by: unknown, poole on 7:03pm Thu 7 Aug 08
my thoughts go out to lees family but also to the van driver. who was minding his own business when this terrible accident occuried
my thoughts go out to lees family but also to the van driver. who was minding his own business when this terrible accident occuried
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