A Fatal Accident Inquiry is set take place over a collision which saw a 53 year old man die after being hit by a tram at Saughton on the Edinburgh Trams system in 2018. The tragic accident has already been investigated by the RAIB and there has been a criminal investigation that saw Edinburgh Trams Ltd fined £240,000 but this new inquiry will look further at the incident and to see any learnings which can be made for the future.
Carols Correa Palacio, aged 53, was struck by a tram on a crossing over the tramway at Saughton on 11th September 2018. He died of his injuries. Previous investigations have found that there was no fault to the tram driver or the condition of the tram but that there were health and safety findings.
This included the failure of Edinburgh Trams Limited to carry out a suitable risk assessment of the layout of the crossing and to ensure there was sufficient notice and warnings to pedestrians of the crossing. The RAIB’s recommendations in their investigation included the introduction of louder horns on the trams and improved visibility at the crossings.
Edinburgh Trams Limited admitted to a health and safety breach in 2023 and were fined £240,000.
The Fatal Accident Inquiry will not seek to apportion blame and is there to establish the facts of what led to the tragic accident and to provide any learning points to prevent this from happening again in the future.
Andy Shanks, from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, commented: “The tragic death of Carlos Correa occurred in circumstances giving rise to significant public concern and as such a discretionary fatal accident inquiry will be held. Mr Correa’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”