A fatal accident inquiry into the death of a pedestrian struck by the extended outrigger leg of a lorry found the operator could have taken precautions against it.

Chloe Morrison died in October 2019 as she was walking along a footpath next to the A82 at Kerrowdown near Drumnadrochit.

An HGV owned and operated by Glenevin approached Morrison from behind with its nearside outrigger fully extended horizontally and locked in position.

It extended 1.3m over the pavement and struck the 26-year-old causing her to sustain fatal injuries.

The inquiry found that the company, which has since gone into administration, should have been aware of the absence of a “not stowed” warning system in relation to the outriggers, albeit there was no legal obligation to have it fitted.

It also found that the company should have taken steps to ensure the driver was trained as part of daily walk round checks to ensure outriggers were secure and safely stowed.

The inquiry’s recommendations included companies operating outriggers take into account these two points, plus the government considering the introduction of statutory provisions to enforce the fitting of audible and visible warning systems.

Andy Shanks, procurator fiscal leading on death investigations for the crown office in Scotland, said: “The tragic death of Chloe Morrison occurred in circumstances giving rise to significant public concern and as such a discretionary fatal accident inquiry was instructed. 

“Chloe’s death was a devastating loss for her family and my thoughts are with them at this difficult time.” 

Source: Commercial Motor