A research scientist died when he lost control of his car on black ice and careered into the path of an oncoming pick-up truck.

Prof Miroslav Ivanovich, 56, of Woodstock Road, Yarnton, failed to regain control of his P-reg Audi on the A4074 just outside Nuneham Courtenay on the morning of January 13.

Oxford Coroner's Court heard that the scene of the accident, half a mile outside the Oxford side of the village, was extremely dangerous. Pathologist Dr Ian Buley, based at the John Radcliffe Hospital, told the hearing that Prof Ivanovich, who worked for a Reading company, died from multiple injuries. Originally, from Yugoslavia, the professor had been a widower since 1988.

Pc Michael Greenwood, a Reading-based officer, was driving home when he came across the crash.

He said: "The road was like a sheet of glass. It was absolutely treacherous."

George Spurgeon, of Buckthorne Close, Cholsey, who was driving the four-wheel, R-reg Toyota pick-up involved in the collision, could not remember the incident when he was taken to hospital after the crash. Mahmud Hussain, of Horspath Road, Cowley, who was driving behind the professor's car at the time of the accident, said he slowed down because he too almost lost control on the ice.

Vehicle examiner Gilbert Fitchett said there were no mechanical defects which could have contributed to the crash.

The hearing was also told that a film of mud on the road would have reduced the efficiency of braking and steering.

Coroner Nicholas Gardiner recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Story date: Thursday 13 May

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