A MAN died while holidaying in France when his motorbike was in collision with a car.

Darren Chandler, of Arlesey, was travelling with three other friends, also on motorbikes, when the accident happened, an inquest heard yesterday (Wednesday).

The 31-year-old and his friends had been staying in Deauville, in Normandy, in September last year when they decided to travel to Calais.

The car Mr Chandler collided with had been attempting to make a left turn across traffic, and had clearly indicated its intention to do so, the inquest was told.

It is believed Mr Chandler did not realise this, leading to the accident. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Coroner Edward Thomas read out a witness’ recollection of the incident.

The witness said: “I had slowed down due to the car and was waiting when he drove past. I did not see him but only heard him before the crash.”

There is no indication that Mr Chandler had been speeding and tests showed he did not have any alcohol in his system at the time of the incident.

He had been regularly riding his motorbike for more than two years in England and had not been involved in any accidents previously.

Despite other minor wounds, Mr Chandler suffered no fractured bones. But liver laceration and internal bleeding was the cause of death.

He had been at the tail-end of the group when the incident happened, meaning his friends continued to travel several miles further before realising they had lost him.

Mr Thomas recorded a verdict of accidental death.