A LORRY struck and killed a 23-year-old Thurrock woman after its driver failed to spot her car an inquest heard.

Louise Cooper died on the morning of February 11 this year after being in collision with a lorry driven by Lee Baker, 33, as she was getting out of her car, which was parked in the southbound carriageway of the A13, between Greenacres and the Five Bells roundabout, in Basildon.

The inquest, at Chelmsford Coroner’s Court, heard she pulled up in her Mini Cooper after it collided with a Ford Fiesta in front.

She had opened the driver’s door and must have have placed at least one foot on the road, when the tragedy happened.

Speaking at the inquest at Chelmsford Coroner’s Court, Sergeant Richard Raker, said he believed Mr Baker had failed to spot Louise’s stationary vehicle in time before running her over.

He said: “Although Mr Baker was travelling within the speed limit, it is my opinion that he failed to spot Louise’s vehicle quickly enough and therefore didn’t brake in time.”

However, several witnesses pointed out visibility was poor because it was foggy at the time.

Mr Baker told the inquest he failed to spot Louise’s car because he didn’t see any brake lights.

He said: “I should have been backed up further and I should have slowed down, but I just didn’t see any lights.”

Summing up the proceedings, Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said: “I shall record a conclusion that Louise Cooper died as a result of a road traffic accident.

“The court extends its deepest sympathies to her family. I hope you will be able to treasure the positive, happy memories of Louise.”

During the highly emotional proceedings, Louise Cooper’s mum, Julie Willis, asked pathologist Dr David Rouse to confirm whether Louise was killed instantly after being hit.

She said: “So the lorry driver knows the consequences of his actions, can you confirm that Louise survived the initial impact and suffered pain after she was run over.”

Dr Rouse replied: “I can’t say that she didn’t suffer.”

Speaking after the inquest, Louise’s uncle, David Cooper, spoke of his family’s grief.

He said: “She meant everything to our family. I don’t think we will ever get a sense of closure.”

Mr Baker is due to stand trial for careless driving at Grays Magistrate’s Court on November 20.