MSV fined for failings over fatal Oulton bike crash

Oulton Park operator Motorsport Vision has been fined over £400,000 for safety failings following the death of a motorbike rider during a trackday at the Cheshire circuit nine years ago.

Michael Carson was killed on 5 October 2013 when, having fallen from his bike at the blind Hill Top section of track between Island Hairpin and the Hislops chicane following contact with another rider, he was then struck by a number of bikes. Four other riders were hurt in the incident with two suffering life-changing injuries.

Cheshire West and Chester Council brought the prosecution to Chester Crown Court alleging that MSV failed to respond to a similar incident in May that year when a rider had fallen at the same part of the track, although he was not hit.

There were no marshals in that area and CCTV cameras were deemed inadequate.

MSV pleaded guilty to a breach of health and safety law and was fined £158,000 and ordered to pay £250,000 in prosecution costs.

MSV says it has made a number of improvements since the accident. In a statement, it said: “We are constantly reviewing our operational and safety procedures and ensure that these evolve in line with advances in technology. Similarly, we seek to learn from any incidents that inevitably do take place to determine if changes are required. It is a matter of deep regret that on this occasion in May 2013 that opportunity was missed. We have learned from this and continue to strive to offer the safest possible venues for the enjoyment of all motorsport activities.”