Croydon tram crash report could make driver fatigue safety recommendation

An investigation into the Croydon tram crash could result in a safety recommendation for driver fatigue, it has been announced.

The way tiredness is managed by London tram operator FirstGroup may feature in a section of a final report aimed at preventing similar accidents occurring, the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) said.

Seven people were killed and 51 were injured when a tram came off the tracks, overturned and slid for 25 metres shortly after 6am on November 9 2016.

The final report is "nearing completion" and is expected to be published by the end of the year.

The RAIB said other recommendations likely to be featured in the document include:

:: Introduction of a system to prevent serious accidents due to excessive speed at high-risk locations.

:: Researching how the attention state of drivers can be detected.

:: Improving containment of passengers by tram windows and doors.

:: Creation of an industry body to facilitate more effective co-operation between tram networks and operators on safety issues.

An interim report found the two-carriage tram was travelling at 46mph as it entered a sharp bend at Sandilands Junction, Croydon, which had a 13mph limit.

The late application of the brakes, and the absence of emergency braking, suggests the driver "lost awareness", according to RAIB.

The driver, Alfred Dorris, 43, from Beckenham, south-east London, was arrested at the scene and questioned on suspicion of manslaughter.

He was last questioned by police on Wednesday, when he was again released on bail.