Drivers should make sure their vision from their vehicles is the best it can be, and fit better or wider exterior mirrors if towing, Otago-Southland coroner David Crerar has advised.
Mr Crerar's comments come in a finding into the death of Dunsandel man Geoffrey Owen Hill, in Haven St, Moeraki, on March 26 last year, when he was run over by a boat trailer being towed by a four-wheel-drive utility.
After getting out of the utility, Mr Hill went around to the rear to get gear out. He stumbled and was struck by the boat. He fell under the wheels of the boat trailer as it pulled away and was fatally injured.
Mr Crerar said Mr Hill's death would be even more of a tragedy if nothing was learnt from it.
"Drivers of all vehicles adopt significant responsibilities for the vehicle, for its passengers and all road users. In the case of utilities and other vehicles with restricted visibility, drivers must assume even greater responsibilities," he said.
All drivers should take every available opportunity to ensure their vision was the best it could possibly be.
"Clean windows ensure adequate viewing channels, as would the installation of better exterior mirrors or extension mirrors when towing boats, and more appropriate lighting could be considered," he said.
