Inquest concludes into the death of 19-year-old George Simms who died at the scene of a van crash on Victoria Street, Newark

The family of George Sims has highlighted how “one mistake can be costly” after the crippling loss of the teenager in a van crash.

An inquest into the death of 19-year-old George, of Newark, concluded today. Although no reason for the crash could be identified, he had been seen travelling at speed just before the crash.

In a statement George’s family said: “We appreciate the outpouring of love and support since the devastating loss of our George.

“We want to highlight that one mistake can be costly. We are heartbroken that George was speeding.

“Since passing his driving test, George had always maintained consistent high percentages on his black box. He even insisted on keeping the black box long after he needed to, to keep up with his high scores.

“Keep reminding your family members to drive safely, to keep their undivided attention on the road, avoid distractions and take their time.

“We would hate for any other family to experience such a crippling loss, in this way, as we have.

“Life is precious and it can change in a moment."

George was pronounced dead at the scene of a single-vehicle collision on Victoria Street, Newark, on May 18.

He was the driver of the Peugeot Bipper that struck a garden wall at around 10.30pm.

A friend of his was the front seat passenger, and sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The inquest, which was attended by members of his family, was told a toxicology report was said to be “unremarkable” with no drugs or alcohol found in his system. Police also said there was no evidence of him consuming nitrous oxide.

Evidence provided by George’s GP revealed he had no medical conditions or prescribed medication that would have contributed to the crash.

Giving evidence, forensic collision investigator Pc Abbot said the crash was 160 metres beyond Newark Marina, where two CCTV cameras had recorded George driving past.

Police calculated an average speed of 65mph as he passed the marina.

Mechanical investigation found no faults with the van and showed both passengers had been wearing their seatbelts at the time.

George, who died of multiple traumatic injuries, had a full licence, good eyesight, and there was no evidence of distraction due to a mobile phone.

What happened in the 160 metres between the CCTV footage and the scene of the collision is unknown, as the passenger had been on his phone at the time and had not been paying attention prior to the crash.

Speaking at the inquest, George’s family described him as an “unassuming young man who loved life” and said the incident had “shocked the whole family” as he had been a safe driver who had been so happy to have passed his driving test.

Coroner Beth Brown said: “This is an extremely sad case of an unassuming young man, a brother and a son, who died in a road traffic collision.

“Unfortunately, we will never know what caused him to crash that day.

“I just want to extend my sincere condolences. I hope you will be able to remember George for the person he was, not how he died.”