Tragic month on Lancashire's roads as crashes claim three lives

A teenager is also fighting for her life in hospital and an arrest has also been made in connection to the Coppull crash.

Philip Hayes, 54, described by his family as "the most beautiful father, husband and person," was killed in a crash involving a Tesla on Preston Road in Coppull at around 5.30am on April 30.

Philip Hayes died after fatal crashes (Image: Police)

He was named this week and in a tribute his family said: "Phil was the most beautiful father, husband and person.

"Whether it was his sarcastic jokes, his dedication to his dogs or his acts of kindness dropping off food for people or presents, nobody could say a bad word about him.

Police on Preston Road, Coppull investigating crash that claimed life of Philip Hayes (Image: Phil Taylor)

"Even if you only met him once or twice, he left an impact on you.

"And everyone who knew him has absolutely amazing memories with him that they will treasure always.

"We are absolutely crushed by the loss and still in complete shock.

Police on Preston Road, Coppull investigating crash that claimed life of Philip Hayes (Image: Phil Taylor)

"Such an amazing man has had his life ripped away from him so early due to the reckless and dangerous driving of one individual.

"Their actions have left a huge hole in all our hearts and lives that can never be replaced.

"No amount of justice will ever make up for the most gorgeous soul that has been taken from us."

Police on Preston Road, Coppull investigating crash that claimed life of Philip Hayes (Image: Phil Taylor)

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on bail with conditions.

Police on Preston Road, Coppull investigating crash that claimed life of Philip Hayes (Image: Phil Taylor)

In Haslingden, two people lost their lives following a separate crash on Helmshore Road on May 4.

Eighteen-year-old Victoria Niebylska, a passenger in a VW Golf, died in hospital the following day.

Victoria Niebylska (Image: Phil Taylor)

In a tribute, her family said: "My only daughter, beloved granddaughter and friend to all.

"Eighteen years could never hold all the love you brought into this world.

"You were my one and only, my greatest joy, my whole heart.

"So deeply cherished, so dearly missed, yet forever with us in every heartbeat, every memory, every quiet moment.

"Your love remains, always Mum, Nan and Grandad. Forever 18."

Victoria Niebylska (Image: Police)

The driver, a man in his 20s, also died in hospital on Tuesday morning. Tributes have been paid to 'Hishaam', thought to be the driver.

Another passenger, an 18-year-old woman, remains in hospital with serious injuries.

Councillor Alyson Barnes, leader of Rossendale Council, said: "It is an absolute tragedy that two young people have lost their lives.

"Our thoughts are with the families involved.

"We get a lot of concern from residents about road safety.

"Our MP, Andy MacNae, has started a road safety campaign off the back of those concerns."

Rossendale MP Andy MacNae said: "This is indeed tragic news, and thoughts are with the families.

"Whilst I wouldn’t comment on the specific incident, I’d be happy to make more general points about road safety in the context of my Rossendale road safety campaign and my role as chair of the all-party parliamentary group on transport safety, where we have recently been looking at young driver safety."

While not fatal, other serious crashes have also been reported in Lancashire in recent weeks.

A motorcyclist was taken to hospital after a crash at the Whitebirk Roundabout in Blackburn on April 30, and a child sustained a serious head injury in an incident on Grane Road, Haslingden on April 18.

Police are continuing to investigate the crashes and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to come forward.