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Truck driver blamed 'coughing fit' for fatal crash

A truck driver who blames a coughing fit for a crash that killed a teacher has collapsed in court.

Kenneth Pillar, 54, claims he was struck down by the same condition on the morning of his court appearance, as he pleaded not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

Kenneth Pillar says a 'coughing fit' caused a fatal crash. Photo: 7 News
Kenneth Pillar says a 'coughing fit' caused a fatal crash. Photo: 7 News

Mr Pillar said the condition was called ‘farmers lungs,’ something he felt was the cause for the horror crash at Murray Bridge in June.

Mr Pillar’s B-Double crossed on to the wrong side of the Swanport Bridge, killing 61-year-old Mount Gambia Teacher, Maria Dowdell.

“I started coughing and blacked out,” he said.

In court Mr Pillar was coughing and wailing as he was taken into the dock.

When he collapsed he was given a puffer and some water before he entered a not guilty plea.

Belinda Thornton, a passenger in Mr Pillar’s truck was also charged, accused with committing acts to endanger life.

Mr Pillar apologized to Maria Dowdell’s family, however they did not accept it.

The scene of the crash in June. Photo: 7 News
The scene of the crash in June. Photo: 7 News

They were struggling to cope with what had happened.

“Day by day, everyone is trying and we’re supporting each other as best we can and trying to look forward to better days,” Julian Dowdell said.