RAIB: personal issues distracted driver of derailed freight train

The driver of a DB Cargo Class 66 which derailed and was then hit by a Class 170 diesel multiple unit at Bromsgrove on March 23 was distracted by personal issues arising from the COVID-19 lockdown, according to the Rail Accident Investigation Branch.

The RAIB report revealed that after running through the buffer stop at the end of a siding known as the Up Bromsgrove Neck, in anticipation of banking duties on the Lickey Incline, 66057 fouled the main line.

There was insufficient time for the alarm to be raised to stop the CrossCountry 2105 Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street, formed of 170107, scraping along its side. No passengers or staff were injured.

While en route to work, the DB Cargo driver had received a phone call from a family member, and there had been a discussion about what the televised announcement by the Prime Minister about lockdown would mean for his childcare arrangements. Text messages were sent to his phone while driving, and he sent four replies.

The ‘66’, which was travelling downhill south of Bromsgrove station, coasted into the Up Bromsgrove Neck at a maximum speed of around 23mph. With the locomotive 40 metres from the buffer stop, the driver became aware of where he was and made a full brake application. It hit the buffer stop four seconds later at 21mph.

The Class 170 was travelling at 85mph when it hit the corner of the Class 66. There was no opportunity to stop before the collision, which took place approximately 47 seconds after the ‘66’ collided with the buffer stop.

One recommendation was made: that Network Rail should review (and revise if necessary) the processes and standards it applies to buffer stops installed on non-platform terminal tracks, to ensure risks arising from potential buffer stop collisions are being adequately managed.

RAIB also emphasises the importance of train drivers complying with their employer’s mobile phone policy to avoid unnecessary distractions while driving, of informing the signaller following a train accident, and of train drivers and other staff intending to get out of their trains following an incident - ensuring they do so in a manner that does not place them at unnecessary risk from trains on lines open to traffic.