Coach accident trial Wednesday 9 March 2005

The criminal trial of an Austrian minibus driver, involved in a coach accident near Hallein in Austria, which left six British holidaymakers dead and many injured continues at 1.30 pm on Wednesday 9 March 2005 in Salzburg, Austria.

The accident occurred on 10 August 2004, when the 70-year-old minibus driver, Johan Prettenthaler, attempted to overtake a coach carrying 42 British tourists. The minibus collided with the coach, which then left the road and crashed down an embankment.

Coach accident solicitors

Clive Garner, Partner at national law firm Irwin Mitchell (IM), who is acting for many of the victims of the crash, says: "The Trial of Mr Prettenthaler on criminal charges is likely to conclude on Wednesday afternoon. At an earlier hearing in January Mr Prettenthaler pleaded guilty to causing injury as a result of negligence. He currently denies more serious criminal charges arising from the incident, and the Court is expected to deliver its verdict on Wednesday."

The Defence lawyers for Mr Prettenthaler maintain that the driver of the coach was also at fault in not reacting appropriately, in particular in steering the coach to the right, off the carriageway and over the embankment. The defence also criticise the effectiveness of the coach brakes.

Garner continues, "We are in contact with the insurers for both the minibus and the coach. Both insurers have agreed to pay compensation to our clients, although we are still awaiting confirmation from the insurers of Inghams, the English Tour Operator involved, as to whether they will also contribute to an overall settlement package."

Have you got a coach accident claim? If we can help you or someone you know with a similar case, please visit our Accidents and illness abroad pages.