In a distressing accident at Banbury Station in Oxfordshire, a two-month-old baby was injured when their pram rolled off the platform edge and collided with a moving train. This incident, which unfolded within seconds, serves as a critical reminder of the dangers of leaving items unattended, even briefly, on train station platforms.

How the Accident Happened

The accident occurred while the baby’s parent was preparing to board a train. According to an investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), the parent momentarily let go of the pram to adjust a nearby suitcase. It was during this very brief moment that the pram began to roll forward. The platform at Banbury Station has a slight slope towards the tracks, which caused the pram to gather speed as it moved towards the edge.

Unaware of the pram’s movement, the parent continued facing away, focusing on their suitcase. In just a matter of seconds, the pram reached the platform’s edge, coinciding with the arrival of an oncoming train. Despite slowing down as it prepared to stop, the train was still moving at approximately 35 mph (56 km/h) when the collision occurred.

Attempted Rescue and Impact

As the pram rolled toward the platform’s edge, a relative standing nearby attempted to intervene. However, with only seconds to act, they were unable to reach the pram in time. The train’s bodyside made contact with the pram, causing it to spin and tip over. The baby was thrown from the pram onto the platform surface, sustaining a head injury. Fortunately, the injury was not severe, but it undoubtedly left the family shaken and distressed.

Investigation Findings by RAIB

Following the incident, the Rail Accident Investigation Branch conducted an investigation to understand the factors that contributed to the accident. According to RAIB’s report, the slope of the platform played a significant role in this accident. The pram’s gradual movement towards the edge of the platform was not immediately noticeable, particularly when unattended for even a short moment.

Their report noted that approximately 15 seconds before the accident, the parent began moving the pram closer to the platform edge, intending to board the train. When the parent turned away to secure their luggage, they unintentionally let go of the pram. Although the parent’s action was brief, it created enough time for the pram to start rolling towards the edge. The front of the train passed the pram’s location just three seconds before the impact, with the pram continuing to roll toward the track. When the pram made contact with the side of the train, the impact caused it to spin and topple, leading to the infant’s fall onto the platform.

Immediate Aftermath and Emergency Response

Following the accident, emergency personnel were quickly called to the scene. The baby received immediate medical attention for the head injury, which was fortunately minor. The family was understandably shaken by the incident, and the station staff provided them with support.

The RAIB’s findings are intended to help improve station safety and prevent similar accidents in the future. The organization has emphasized the importance of platform design, especially at stations where platforms may have slopes. A small slope may seem insignificant but can create significant risks for prams, luggage, or other items left unattended.

Learning from the Incident

This tragic accident highlights the critical need for caution when at a train station, especially with young children. Leaving a pram, stroller, or any wheeled item unattended on a platform can lead to unexpected accidents. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Keep Hands on the Pram at All Times: Even if you need to adjust your luggage or grab another item, try to keep one hand on the pram. If necessary, ask a companion or family member to help hold it.
Be Aware of Platform Conditions: Some train station platforms may have slight slopes that are not immediately noticeable. When possible, position prams and strollers away from the platform edge, especially if the platform is sloped.
Ensure Brakes Are Engaged: Many prams and strollers have built-in brakes. Engaging the brakes can prevent unintentional rolling, especially on inclined surfaces.
Communicate with Relatives or Companions: If you’re traveling with family or friends, make a plan before you arrive at the platform. Assign roles, such as who will handle luggage and who will manage the pram, to avoid any last-minute rush or distraction.

Importance of Station Design and Safety Features

In response to this incident, there have been discussions around platform safety at train stations. Modernizing platform designs to minimize slopes or adding railings or barriers near platform edges could provide an extra layer of safety. While not every station can undergo immediate redesigns, station management can consider implementing other safety measures, such as visible warnings or station announcements, to remind passengers to stay alert.

In addition to platform design, there is also a need for better public awareness of platform safety. Educational posters, social media campaigns, and station announcements could serve as reminders for passengers with small children, prams, or strollers to take extra care.