The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) today released its report into the fatal collision with a pedestrian at Norbreck, Blackpool, on 5 August 2009.
A full copy of the report is available here:
Summary
At about 10:06 hrs on 5 August 2009, tram number 719, running south from Cleveleys to Blackpool struck a pedestrian who was crossing the tramway on a roadway crossing at Norbreck tram-stop. The pedestrian, a 70 year old woman, was crossing with her husband. He was not struck, having stopped clear of the southbound track, however, the woman stepped into the path of the tram and was seriously injured. She died in hospital around five weeks later.
The RAIB investigation identified factors associated with the accident including:
- the actions taken by the pedestrian in her assumption of the stopping pattern of the tram;
- the way the tram was being driven; and
- the way Blackpool Transport Services Limited manage speed limits throughout their network and monitor their tram drivers’ compliance with them.
Recommendations
As a consequence of this accident, the RAIB has made two recommendations targeted at Blackpool Transport Services Limited. These cover the following areas:
- the development of a company wide policy for the determination, application and signing of speed limits throughout the network; and
- the development of an effective system to monitor compliance with speed limits, and adjustments to recruitment, training and compliance procedures to increase levels of compliance.
Notes to editors
1. The sole purpose of RAIB investigations is to prevent future accidents and incidents and improve railway safety. The RAIB does not establish blame, liability or carry out prosecutions.
2. For media enquiries, please call 020 7944 3248.
Newsdate: 3 June 2010
