RAIB probes freight train collision

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has launched an investigation into a signal passed at danger, and the subsequent collision of two freight trains, near Doncaster on July 5 (RAIL 961).

The incident occurred at around 0623, when a GB Rail freight operated 35- wagon container service travelling between Felixstowe and Masborough collided with the rear of a stationary train on the Down Slow/Up West Slow line between Loversall Carr and Flyover West junctions.

A red light had been passed by the Masborough train, which was travelling at 28mph when the collision occurred 230 metres beyond the signal.

No one was hurt in the crash, but a number of wagons were derailed with significant damage caused to the vehicles and infrastructure involved.

According to RAIB, the investigation will focus on the way in which the train was being driven, any factors which may have influenced the actions of the driver, the condition of the signalling system, and any underlying management factors.