Compensation news
01/03/2011

Car accident near Newcastle results in fatality

A driver who suffered a car accident in Whitmore, near Newcastle, died as a result of his injuries.

The man, who was in his mid-40s, lost control of his car and came off the A53 between Whitmore and Baldwins Gate after colliding with an oncoming vehicle.

The driver in the other vehicle was unharmed, but the victim suffered a fatal head injury when his car hit a tree by the side of the road.

Police, paramedics and fire crews attended the incident and tried to save the motorist, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The speed limit on the road was reduced from 50mph to 40mph some years ago after a series of road traffic accidents occurred, but the pub landlord of the Mainwaring Arms, which is located on the dangerous stretch of road, said, "It needs traffic calming measures there," adding, "The road is atrocious and there are always problems."

The road was closed for four hours while the police investigated the site and the wreckage was cleared away.

Northumbria Police is asking anyone who witnessed the car accident to contact them so that they may determine the cause of the incident and who is liable.

If the other driver involved is found to have caused the man's fatal injuries, then the victim's family may choose to take legal action against the motorist and make a compensation claim for their loss.