Fatal bus accident report released

An investigation by the South African Police Accident Forensic into the fatal bus accident that killed four people on Republic Road on 21 July, has now produced conclusive results.

The final report into last year’s crash was released and it was found that the bus wasn’t 100 per cent roadworthy.

The report also suggests that, what led to the accident wasn’t the vehicle’s braking system, but it was a result of human error, that occurred when the driver left the bus unattended and failed to engage the handbrake.

The bus rolled forward down Republic Road toward Rabie Street for about 900m.

Last year, Tania du Toit, Vital Med spokesperson, informed that an initial investigation proved that the bus broke down on top of an incline on Republic Road, and stood stationary while the bus driver went to the Metrobus depot to collect another bus.

A case of culpable homicide has been laid against the driver at the Linden Police Station

Meanwhile, Ward councillor 105 Mike Wood said he is concerned that the bus was not 100 per cent roadworthy.

“The buses should always be checked before leaving the depot,” said Wood.

He also said there is now a lack of confidence in Metrobus and that the City should restore confidence.

Democratuic Alliance Transport spokesperson Nico de Jager said more needs to be done to ensure safety.

De Jager also suggested that there should be a skilled audit of all drivers to ascertain the level of competence to deal with difficult situations.

He also suggested that drivers should have continued refresher courses to up their skills, and that there should be an introduction of on-board cameras in buses to monitor driver behaviour.