A MINOR accident on the M6 turned into carnage with a Lancaster women being fatally injured, an inquest has heard. Following a collision on the M6 at Barnacre, Abid Patel got out of his car to warn other drivers but, unknown to him, his 25-year-old wife had also got out of their VW Golf.

When another vehicle hit their car, Mrs Rehana Patel of Ridge Street was knocked over and subsequently died of multiple injuries.

The inquest at Preston heard that the accident that had triggered the pile up happened around 6.30am on January 7 on the southbound carriageway. Three lanes were blocked and six cars were involved.

Police inquiries traced a bright yellow pick-up truck that was involved in the initial collision to a Glasgow company. In a statement Mr Patel said the truck was in the third lane and indicated to move back into the second lane, giving him no chance to avoid a collision.

The Golf span round and hit the central reservation. He was concerned other vehicles would collide with his car so he tried to warn oncoming traffic. Two cars moved to the second lane but another swerved at the last moment and collided with his car and Mrs Patel, who was at the back, was knocked over. He did not realise she had got out of the car. Mr Patel said: "I held her in my arms and the next thing I remember was a police officer coming."

PC Glenn Redmann, of the motorway patrol, said details of the yellow pick up truck were circulated. It transpired that the truck had gone to Manchester and traces of red paint had been found on it.

The truck driver, Mr Charles Grant, 42, of Lochdochant Road, Easterhouse, Glasgow, was interviewed. After persistent questioning he conceded he had probably collided with the Golf but had not felt it or seen it spin round in front of him. He admitted having panicked.

County Coroner Mr Howard McCann recorded a verdict of accidental death and described the accident as "very tragic."

During the inquest, he heard how cars approaching the accident weaved their way through the carnage and carried on their way. "It's difficult to understand the thinking of some people at times," he ventured.

Proceedings are to be taken against Mr Garent. He has appeared at Lancaster magistrates court charged with driving without due care, failing to stop and report. He admitted driving without due care but denies failing to stop.

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