The 25-year-old German national, an HGV driver for Josef Schnell, died on the A74(M) Glasgow to Carlisle Road near Moffat, around Junction 15, in the afternoon of Friday 14 July 2023 after his vehicle left the road.
A preliminary hearing is set for 4 March 2025.
The Fatal Accident Inquiry will be held on 29 May 2025 within Dumfries Sheriff Court
The purpose of a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) includes determining the cause of death; the circumstances in which the deaths occurred, and to establish what, if any, reasonable precautions could have been taken, and could be implemented in the future, to minimise the risk of future deaths in similar circumstances.
Unlike criminal proceedings, FAIs are inquisitorial in nature, and are used to establish facts rather than to apportion blame.
Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said:
“The death of Thomas Hein occurred while in the course of his employment and as such a Fatal Accident Inquiry is mandatory.
“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.
“Mr Hein’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”
Further information
For more information on Fatal Accident Inquiries, see the Crown’s guide.