Tour Buses In Boston Get Surprise Inspections From State Police
BOSTON (CBS) - State police and public utility inspectors randomly checked tour buses in South Station Thursday morning to make sure everything is in working order after three major bus crashes in the Northeast in the last two weeks.
Some riders are relieved to see inspections, now that they are more aware than ever about possible dangers when taking a trip.
In the last two weeks, three tour buses have crashed in the northeast. The worst one occurred in the Bronx, where 15 people were killed when a bus swerved into a signpost.
WBZ-TV's Sera Congi reports.
Two people died in a recent crash on the New Jersey Turnpike, while in New Hampshire, 23 people were injured when a tour bus overturned in Littleton while on its way to Boston.
"It's all about the passenger safety and that's what we're attempting to achieve," said Sgt. Charles Devin of the Massachusetts State Police.
Inspectors said they routinely check tour buses around the region, and that random checks are the most effective.
"We focus first on the vehicles, then obviously the operators, and regarding the vehicles, one of the most things that we usually check...are tires, steering and the brakes," said Sgt. Devin.
Some riders are not hesitating to get on board despite the recent spate of accidents.
"I'm not nervous. It happens. Things happen. I mean, I don't think I have to be nervous about anything at all," said Sarah Stuart.
Inspectors said there are not many accidents in Massachusetts, and most of the violations found are minor.
