David Levett

I am Anne PEMBER, Senior Coroner for the coroner area of Northamptonshire

On 18th April 2018, I commenced an investigation into the death of David Levett aged 53 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the Inquest on 13th April 2023. The conclusion of the Inquest was: 1a Bronchopneumonia 1b Head and chest injuries sustained in a road traffic incident 28.1.18 2 Megacolon due to faecal loading.

On the evening of 28th January 2018, a car broke down on a stretch of the M1 south-bound motorway near Daventry known as a “ Smart Motorway ” . A second vehicle came to the rescue of the first and parked behind the first vehicle in lane 1. A lorry collided with the rear of the second vehicle, pushing it into the rear of the first vehicle. Mr David Levett was a rear seat passenger in the second vehicle. He received severe head and chest injuries and was conveyed to Hospital. He succumbed to his injuries and was confirmed deceased on 24th February 2018. My conclusion was Road Traffic Collision.

During the course of the investigation my inquiries revealed matters giving rise to concern. In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths could occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows: (brief summary of matters of concern) DURING THE COURSE OF THE INQUEST, EVIDENCE WAS GIVEN THAT THE LOCATION OF THE COLLISION WAS ON AN ALL LANE RUNNING SMART MOTORWAY. THERE WAS NOWHERE FOR THE DRIVER OF THE FIRST VEHICLE TO PARK SAFELY e.g.. ON A HARD SHOULDER.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you (and/or your organisation) have the power to take such action.