Coroner Calls for Medical Certificates for Learner Drivers After Fatal Crash

"The application form relies on self-reporting, which may discourage disclosure."
– Deputy State Coroner Naomi Kereru

The Crash

In November 2020, a 16-year-old driver lost concentration while driving a Toyota LandCruiser on the Princes Highway in Suttontown. He veered into the right-hand lane, causing a Ford Territory to swerve into the opposite lane to avoid a collision. When he corrected back into the left lane, a head-on crash occurred.

Three people died instantly: Ned Walker, 80, Nan Walker, 70, and Sue Skeer, 55.

The Driver's Hidden Medical Conditions

The teenage driver—identified only as TB in the coroner's report—had been diagnosed with:

• Autism spectrum disorder
• ADHD
• Tourette's Syndrome
• Behavioral problems
• Developmental delays

He did not disclose these conditions on his learner's permit application. His mother believed the conditions did not affect his driving ability, based on his experience driving on their farm. The coroner found it was unwise to determine this without medical advice.

Coroner's Recommendation

Deputy State Coroner Naomi Kereru has recommended that all first-time learner permit applicants be required to obtain a medical certificate directly submitted to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. The certificate would address the medical condition questions currently on the application form.

"If TB had disclosed his conditions, the Registrar would likely have ordered further driving tests"—though it is unknown whether that would have disqualified him.

Legal Outcome

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was found guilty of:

• Three counts of aggravated driving without due care causing death
• One count of aggravated driving without due care causing harm

Government Response

SA Premier Peter Malinauskas stated he had not yet been briefed on the recommendation.

Transport Minister Joe Szakacs said the government would review the recommendation and consider practices in other states.