Human error behind deadly Tshwane bus crash, report finds
A preliminary report into the bus crash which claimed the lives of 15 people has ruled out mechanical failure as one of the possible causes.
The head-on collision between the bus and a truck on the M17 Hornsnek Road in Pretoria a week ago left 23 others injured.
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula released the report in Pretoria on Friday.
Mbalula says the report found human error to have been the cause of the crash.
“The truck carrying furniture was travelling kn the opposite direction. The truck veered off from its original lane and into the path of the bus resulting in a head-on collision. It was established that weather conditions at the time of the crash were clear and this was ruled out as a contributory factor.
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“The road was also found to be in a fair condition and not likely to be a cause of contributory factor in the crash. A full mechanical investigation was conducted on both vehicles and it was confirmed that there were non mechanical defects or failure that contributed to the occurrence of the crash. Both vehicles were on a roadworthy state before the crash.”
Both vehicle drivers died on the scene.
Mbalula says while nobody will be charged, the report will be referred to the NPA.
“The contents of the report will be brought to the attention of the directorate of public prosecution for their investigation.
“It is unfortunate and lamentable to the extreme since both of the drivers died and consequently no one can be charged for reckless, negligent driving or culpable homicide.”
