Train derailment caused by human error

(New Jersey - WABC, February 21, 2007) (WABC) -- New Jersey Transit suspended three employees and ordered additional railroad switch inspections after a train derailed during the commuter rush Wednesday morning.

The train was heading from Waldwick to Hoboken at the height of rush hour when it derailed in Ridgewood.

A track supervisor and two track foremen were suspended without pay pending an administrative hearing. Within 24 hours, NJ Transit also said it will inspect four similar switches installed in the last year.

Eyewitness News' Anthony Johnson spoke to NJ Transit officials. "Three employees have been suspended without pay and we're going to test other switches on our system," said Penny Bassett Hackett.

The train was traveling 36 mph when it crossed over from the Main Line to the Bergen County Line, which is lower than the 45 mph authorized speed limit.

The Bergen County and Main lines operated on a modified schedule through the day Wednesday but are expected to be back to normal by Thursday morning's commute.

Officials have been out all day trying to repair what was damaged. Three coaches of a five car New Jersey Transit train derailed.

Officials say approximately 100 passengers were on board.Luckily there were no injuries, but plenty of delays. Passengers waiting to take the train had over an hour delay.

Transit officials say the cars derailed after leaving the Ridgewood station, right before the train lines split. That's why there was a backup on three lines.

They say a worn switch was replaced at Ridgewood Junction 10 days ago, and a portion of the switch was improperly installed. It resulted in a condition known as "tight gauge," where the rails are too narrow over several feet of track through the switch point, investigators say.

New Jersey Transit's standard procedures require a thorough inspection of any such work by a qualified employee before returning the track to service, as well as an inspection of all switches every 30 days.

Get more News »

• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•