NJ TRANSIT CONCLUDES HBLR ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

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August 14, 2006
NJT-06-103
Contact: Joe Dee 973 491-7078

NEWARK, NJ ¿ NJ TRANSIT has completed its investigation of the August 11 accident involving a Hudson-Bergen Light Rail vehicle and an NJ TRANSIT bus. The investigation concluded with a finding that bus operator error was the cause of the accident.

Henry Daise, age 51, an NJ TRANSIT part-time bus operator since 1992, has been suspended without pay and faces internal administrative proceedings that could result in discipline up to and including termination of employment. Mr. Daise is also charged by NJ TRANSIT police with violation of two New Jersey motor vehicles statutes, including failure to obey a traffic signal and making an illegal right turn.

The investigation further concluded that the light rail vehicle was operated in compliance with all operating rules and procedures and that traffic signals at the intersection where the accident occurred were working as intended.

Together with Weehawken officials, NJ TRANSIT operations, safety and police officials today surveyed the intersection to identify improvements that could improve traffic flow and further discourage motorists from entering the crossing against the light. Traffic and safety improvements under review at the intersection include additional signage, adjustments to the traffic signals, additional light rail horn blowing, tree trimming to improve sight lines, and stepped-up police enforcement.

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