Our Ref:         FOI-3121-1819

Thank you for your request received on 15 February 2019 asking for information about incidents of driver error involving pedal confusion on the New Routemasters (NRMs).

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm we do hold the information you require. You asked:

1. Since the introduction of Boris bus routemasters when they first came into operation in September of 2013, can you please indicate how many examples of driver error involving peddle confusion have resulted in crashes involving routemaster buses whereby they have collided with other stationary vehicles, property or otherwise?

Our records show that between September 2013 and January 2019, bus drivers of NRMs reported 28 collision incidents where unintended acceleration, otherwise referred to as pedal confusion, was said to be a factor.

2. Has Transport for London issued any instructions to the bus companies operating the Boris bus routemasters regarding the provision of additional training to drivers as a result of peddle confusion arising out of the introduction of the routemaster buses and the accident which received a loss of public attention that occurred on the 22nd September 2013.
3. If yes, can you please indicate what instructions were issued to London bus companies operating the routemaster bus?

TfL has not issued instructions of the type mentioned. We are aware that bus operators have embarked on safety initiatives where they believe this will have positive impacts on the bus network and have run initiatives to reduce the risk of pedal confusion in relation to all the bus types they operate including NRMs.

If this is not the information you are looking for please feel free to contact me.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely

Gemma Jacob
Senior FOI Case Officer
FOI Case Management Team
General Counsel
Transport for London

[email protected]