RAIB releases publication on collision between two passenger trains

The RAIB (Rail Accident Investigation Branch) has released a publication detailing a collision between two passenger trains. As a result of the collision, the driver of one of the trains died, and 162 people were injured, 102 of which required hospital treatment.

Both trains were significantly damaged/partially derailed and around 600m of track needed to be replaced.

One of the trains had come to an unexpected stop due to a fault with its Automatic Warning System which caused the brakes to engage at the wrong time. Prior to the collision, a second train passed two yellow signals and then a red shortly before colliding with the stationary train at around 49mph (79km/h).

RAIB will conduct a full investigation into the collision and will publish its findings in due course. It will look at, amongst other things, whether systems were working correctly, the actions and conduct of parties involved, and factors influencing them.

ORR has published a statement following the collision expressing how its “thoughts are with the driver’s family and friends and all those injured or affected’’.