Coroner's Finding: Potts, Robert James
Deceased
Robert James Potts
Demographics
57y, male
Date of death
2017-10-27
Finding date
2020-01-28
Cause of death
Blunt trauma of chest
AI-generated summary
Robert James Potts, a 57-year-old motorcyclist, died from blunt chest trauma sustained in a motorcycle crash on a rural road in Tasmania. While no medical or clinical errors were involved in his death, the coroner identified several contributing factors: loose gravel on the road surface, possible excessive speed for the corner conditions, and a non-compliant front tyre with insufficient tread depth. The lead rider successfully navigated the same hazard. Mr Potts was wearing appropriate safety equipment including a compliant helmet. No alcohol or drugs were detected. The crash resulted from Mr Potts failing to see or appreciate the danger posed by the gravel, unlike his companion ahead. This is a non-medical death with no preventable healthcare component.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Contributing factors
- Strip of loose pebbles/gravel on road surface in curve
- Possible excessive speed for corner conditions (65-72 km/h vs 35 km/h advisory sign)
- Front motorcycle tyre with insufficient tread depth (non-compliant)
- Failure to see or appreciate the hazard despite warning sign
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