Today, it was reported that a bus driver suffered from “pedal confusion” when he tried to push the brake instead of the accelerator. This caused a deadly crash in London.
Melissa Burr (32-year-old from Rainham in Kent) is believed to have been walking among two electric buses, when one shot ahead and collided into another.
Two single-decker buses collided outside London Victoria Station on the morning of August 10. Miss Burr died at the scene.
Transport for London’s Safety Committee heard that there was ‘alleged pedal confused’. It could be the catalyst for a serious safety review for electric busses.
Two buses took part on the 507 route. It was first electric bus in Central London, and the fifth in London.
Melissa Burr from Rainham (Kent), 32, was found dead outside Victoria Railway Station, on Tuesday
Miss Burr was originally from Rainham (Kent) and had been dating James Watson since May 2018,
Miss Burr was declared dead on the spot of the collision in London Victoria in August
Louise Cheeseman (TfL director of buses) told the committee, “Pedal confusion wasn’t just one element. Supposed pedal confusion.” This was not the only human factor. Now we are taking a look at the layout of bus depot.
“We are conducting a comprehensive investigation in order to determine if any improvements could or can be made.”
Ms Cheesman later told the Evening Standard that TfL was carrying out a probe with bus operator Go Ahead, as well as helping the Health and Safety Executive.
Eyewitnesses claimed Miss Burr was trapped underneath one of the busses, while police stated that three pedestrians were also involved in the accident at 8.25 AM.
Metropolitan Police officers on the spot of the accident outside London Victoria, August
Following the August accident, police cordoned off Victoria station to conduct investigations.
Miss Burr was declared dead on the spot, while two others were taken to hospital for injuries not life-threatening.
Her family paid tribute to Miss Burr in August after her passing. They described her as an ‘intelligent and kind soul’ with a “quirky charm”.
According to the Metropolitan Police, Ms Burr’s family released the following statement: “We are devastated by this loss and the hole it has created in our lives.
Melissa was kind, thoughtful and had a great future.
After the August 10th fatal train crash, this is what was left of London Victoria station.
“As a family, we understand the tragedy that occurred. But for now, we want space and time to grieve our Melissa and to send her off to her father.
Jacob Davidson (36), a Big Issue Seller, spoke out about how people rushed to the wreckage after the accident in an effort to assist.
He stated that it was a very loud bang and the bus crashed into the front of the vehicle in front. It was completely smashed into the front. There was a sound of panic… people shouting ‘can we get help’.’