A Time for Answers, Reflection and Support After the Bedford Train Collision

Following the tragic news of the fatal train collision near Bedford, our thoughts remain with all those who have been affected and their loved ones.

Investigations are ongoing, but initial findings released this week show that there was a fault with one train and a missed red light on another.

Caroline Morris, Managing Director of Serious Injury at Fletchers Solicitors has responded to the findings, saying:

“The report into the Bedford train crash released by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), will no doubt be extremely distressing for all those involved in this tragic incident.

“For those who were injured and for the family of the driver who lost his life, understanding exactly what happened will be an important part of the process in the weeks and months ahead.

“An initial probe, reviewing CCTV footage, signalling data and recordings of radio communications, has been undertaken by the RAIB after two East Midlands Railway (EMR) trains collided in Elstow on Friday 19th June.

“Information from on-train data recorders has shown that red light systems alone failed to prevent the collision.

“Investigators have also said that a fault in the Automatic Warning System of another train had caused it to stop when it was crashed into.

“Both Network Rail and EMR say they are deeply sorry that this extremely serious incident has happened on our railways and have committed to cooperating fully with investigations into how this happened.

“It is vital that the investigation is allowed to establish the full facts and that any lessons identified are swiftly acted upon to prevent another tragedy going forward.

“Our thoughts remain with all those who have been affected by the crash and their loved ones.”