The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into the collision between a tram and a road vehicle at New Swan Lane level crossing on Midland Metro on 08 June 2006.
The full report is available here:
A summary of the key points from the report is included below -
Summary
On Thursday 08 June a Midland Metro tram collided with a taxi on New Swan Lane level crossing. The taxi was pushed across the junction and collided with a stationary lorry. The two occupants of the taxi were taken to hospital with minor injuries, while the tram and both road vehicles suffered minor damage in the collision.
The immediate cause of the accident was the tram driver failing to stop at the signal, anticipating it would change before the tram reached the crossing. A contributory factor was the driver's decision not to apply the hazard brake when realising the signal was unlikely to change. The underlying cause behind this decision was the view amongst drivers that use of the hazard brake was discouraged by the organisation. In addition, a lack of familiarity with the performance of the hazard brake and previous briefing on the possibility of causing injury to passengers and damage to the tram contributed to the driver's decision.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made two recommendations aimed at:
- reviewing the driver training programme; and
- reviewing the arrangements for reporting and follow up on use of the hazard brake.
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 6984.
Newsdate: 7 June 2007
