TfL sets out bus safety strategy 17 October 2023

Transport for London (TfL) has published a new Bus Safety Strategy outlining actions to be taken to achieve its Vision Zero goals for the bus network.

The Vision Zero goals seek to reduce the number of deaths caused by bus collisions and for zero serious injuries by 2041.

The actions include commitments to:

Retrofitting technology onto the existing fleet, including fitting a further 1800 buses with Intelligent Speed Assistance so that half of all buses are fitted with this safety technology by 2024, and the majority of the bus fleet by 2030

Commission further research to identify the most effective measures to avoid and mitigate the risks posed by pedal application error

Trial fatigue detection technologies on up to 450 buses over a 12 to 18 month period

Implement a strategic data-led approach looking at what changes can be made across the network to reduce passenger injuries, particularly due to slips, trips and falls

Work with the London Fire Brigade and other key stakeholders to identify vital new measures to tackle the risks posed by bus fires

Ensure safety improvements are inclusive for all those who work and use the bus network

The strategy sets out the work currently being carried out by TfL, bus operators and the bus industry to deliver a safe bus network. Good progress has been made as the number of people killed in collisions involving London buses in 2022 reduced by 65% against TfL's 2005-09 baseline, compared to an overall reduction across all transport modes on London's roads of 52%.

The number of people seriously injured has reduced by 54%, compared to an overall reduction across all transport modes on London's roads of 38%. However, collaboration is required to further improve bus safety and reduce harm to those outside and on a bus.

Louise Cheeseman, TfL's director of buses, said: "Safety is our first consideration in all that we do to deliver bus services in London and we're determined that it will continue to be at the heart of our transport network. This new strategy is a vital part of our approach to systematically making transport safer for everyone. The measures outlined in this strategy will be vital to achieving our Vision Zero goal of ensuring nobody is killed or seriously injured on the transport network."

Author
Transport Engineer

Related Companies
Transport for London

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