A father-of-one died in an accident on a notorious Highland road after his lorry suffered a “sudden, multiple and catastrophic” brake failure, a court has ruled.
Bruce Cormack was on his way home when he crashed on the Berriedale Braes in Caithness on referendum night in 2014.
Three motorists stopped to help the 41-year-old, but he could not be saved and died just after midnight on September 19.
Yesterday, Sheriff Andrew Berry published his findings after a fatal accident inquiry was held into the tragedy late last year.
He said the braking system on Mr Cormack’s vehicle failed at a critical point on the descent of the hill – and that if it had happened somewhere else on the journey, he may not have died.
He also described the Berriedale Braes as “inherently dangerous”.
The sheriff paid tribute to the “popular family man”.
He pointed out that Mr Cormack had spoken to several people during the day on his run to Invergordon and back, and had never mentioned concerns with his lorry.
He said: “I am satisfied from several sources that he had no concern about his vehicle and if he had he would not have driven on. He was an experienced driver who knew the road and its challenging features very well.
“That Mr Cormack did not use the escape lane a short distance before the vehicle rolled over indicates that there was a sudden, multiple and catastrophic failure in the vehicle’s brakes whereby the bend could not safely be negotiated.
“Had the failure in the vehicle’s brakes happened at a more forgiving location it might well be that the consequences of the accident would have been greatly reduced. Indeed there might not have been an accident at all.”
Three people came to the aid of Mr Cormack following the crash – a woman who called the emergency services, a man who spoke to Mr Cormack, and a paramedic.
Sheriff Berry added: “It may be of some comfort to Mr Cormack’s family and friends that the deceased was aided by three strangers who, individually and collectively, did what they could to offer help and comfort in trying circumstances. These witnesses are to be commended for doing what decent people do in times of emergency.
“Bruce Cormack was a popular, fit, 41-year-old family man who died in a tragic accident going about his daily work. His loss has clearly affected many people. I offer my condolences to the family and friends of Bruce Cormack.”
Mr Cormack, of Durran, is survived by his wife Lynn, young son Scott, parents Jane and Sandy and brothers Stuart and James.