Train-truck collision, derailment & explosion caused by driver on cell phone
Hands-free devices are distracting, says NTSB
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has determined that the May 28, 2013 train/truck collision, 15-car derailment, and subsequent explosion in Rosedale, Md. was caused by the truck driver’s failure to ensure that the tracks were clear before traversing an un-gated highway-rail grade crossing. Contributing to the accident was the truck driver’s distraction due to a phone conversation on a hands-free device at the time of the crash.
Among the recommendations the NTSB made today as a result of the investigation was to extend the limitations on the use of portable electronic devices to prohibit the use of hands-free cellphones by all commercial driver’s license holders while operating a commercial vehicle.