Coroner warns gap in motorway barrier risks lives

Tyler Cox, 18, and Darren Reilly, 55, died following the crash on 1 April

A coroner warned lives would remain at risk unless a motorway barrier was altered following two deaths.

Tyler Cox, 18, and Darren Reilly, 55, died after their silver Range Rover left the southbound carriageway of the M1 near Watford on 1 April 2024.

Hertfordshire Coroner Jacques Howell said safety barriers could stop vehicles leaving the carriageway and hitting trees.

National Highways said it would respond after reviewing the report. A spokesperson said their thoughts were with the grieving family and friends, adding: "Any death on our roads is one too many."

The coroner has urged National Highways to add a safety barrier to part of the M1

In the report, the coroner detailed how Mr Reilly had been driving with his partner and her three children, including Ms Cox, when he lost control of the car and left the carriageway through the gap in the barrier.

The coroner stated barriers were present along the motorway immediately before and after the collision site.

This part of the M1 is lined with trees, which Mr Howell warned could lead to "a very sharp and sudden deceleration" if collided with.

While such gaps are usually present to allow access, witnesses from the roads policing unit could not explain to the coroner why a barrier was not present at this specific spot.

The safety barriers prevent vehicles leaving the carriageway and brings them to a more controlled stop.

National Highways Agency has until 12 September to respond to the report outlining possible actions and a timetable to implement them.