Death of driver sparks M62 junction signage call

Highways bosses have been urged to review the signage at a junction of the M62 after a 21-year-old driver fatally crashed as he left a slip road.

Mason Portman, from Bradford, died on 17 December when he lost control of his car after leaving the motorway at Junction 22 between Rochdale and Huddersfield an inquest heard.

Following the hearing chief coroner Martin Fleming issued a prevention of future deaths report calling for improved signage at the site regarding the speed limit and bend in the road.

A National Highways spokesperson said they would review Mr Fleming's comments and "provide a comprehensive response".

The inquest heard Mr Portman, who was significantly over the drink-drive limit and had cocaine in his system, died when his car hit a wooden fence and road sign before crashing into a vehicle parked in a layby,

In his report, Mr Fleming said there were no road markings or signs "to advise on appropriate speed or road curvature ahead" as Mr Portman approached the location of the collision, just off the eastbound carriageway.

The report, a copy of which was sent to National Highways, said placing "appropriate road markings and signage" at the location should be considered.

The agency, which is responsible for England's major roads and motorways, is legally bound to respond to the coroner by 17 October.

The report said Mr Portman died from "multiple injuries" after his car came to a stop when it careered across moorland and collided with the empty vehicle on the layby, on the A672.

The National Highways spokesperson said: “Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of Mason Portman, and everyone affected by this incident.

“We are committed to continuing to make our roads as safe as possible. We will review the coroner’s comments and provide a comprehensive response to the coroner’s report.”

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