A two-month-old baby sustained a head injury after their pram collided with a moving train at Banbury Station in Oxfordshire. The accident report revealed that the distracted mother, who was juggling luggage, briefly let go of the pram, causing it to roll into the side of the oncoming train. The baby fell out of the buggy and onto the platform floor, suffering a minor head injury.
According to CCTV footage analyzed by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), the parent leaned away from the pram to handle their wheeled luggage, momentarily letting go of the unbraked pram. The pram began to move towards the platform edge, eventually making contact with the train’s bodyside. Investigators were unable to determine why the parent let go of the pram, speculating that they may have been momentarily distracted and unaware of the slope present on the platform.
The report emphasized that the turbulence created by the slow-moving and smooth-sided train did not cause the pram to roll towards the platform edge. A station announcement reminding passengers to keep hold of personal belongings and apply brakes to prams, buggies, and wheelchairs while stationary on platforms was made prior to the accident. Following the incident, Chiltern Railways has enhanced warning signs regarding the aerodynamic risk from passing trains to passengers.
This unfortunate accident serves as a reminder to parents and caregivers about the importance of vigilance and ensuring the safety of children, especially in busy and potentially hazardous environments like train stations. It is crucial to always keep a close eye on young children and secure prams and other equipment properly to prevent accidents and injuries.
In light of this incident, it is essential for parents to be aware of their surroundings, avoid distractions, and prioritize the safety of their children at all times, particularly in public spaces where hazards may be present. By staying attentive and taking necessary precautions, similar accidents can be prevented, ensuring the well-being of children and peace of mind for parents and caregivers.
