Can a Bus Driver Accidentally Close the Bus Doors? How Often Does It Happen?

On a recent bus spotting adventure, I noticed the doors playing a unique game on the A19 while driving for a friend. The doors wouldn't close, much like a child singing 'Nee Tomorrow,' causing the driver to stop and lift the doors manually with a barrier set in place. This incident reminded me of the challenges and safety measures associated with bus doors. In this article, we will explore how often bus doors are accidentally closed, the mechanisms behind it, and what happens in such situations.

Accidental Closures and Safety Measures

Bus drivers frequently encounter situations where passengers get caught in the doors. Newer buses are equipped with advanced sensors that detect obstructions and will automatically reopen the doors if anything is caught. However, this is not always the case with older or smaller buses.

In traditional buses, doors can still be manually closed, which increases the risk of injuries. If a passenger puts their hand in the door as it closes, they risk getting caught. The driver typically feels a resistance and the door will not fully close, indicating that something is in the way.

Smaller buses often do not have interlock mechanisms, where the doors cannot be opened until they are fully closed. Consequently, it is possible to see smaller buses with doors that remain open as they drive.

Types of Bus Door Systems

There are generally two types of bus door systems: manual and electric/hydraulic. Electric and hydraulic systems operate with the push of a button, making them safer and less prone to accidental closures. However, both types can still be closed accidentally due to human error.

Back in the early 1970s, I was a student driving buses with a clutch-based system that would close the doors when the clutch was depressed. I managed to accidentally close a few doors, but it happened less often when driving a regular bus on a busy route with the hand brake released.

Common Scenarios and Solutions

The most common scenario where bus doors are closed accidentally is when a passenger arrives at the bus stop after the bus has already stopped to pick up other passengers. The driver might close the doors and then realize another person is approaching, thus opening them again. This often happens with school buses with manually operated doors.

Accidental closures can also occur when a driver does not see a passenger approaching the door. In such cases, the driver might interpret it as the passenger pressing a button to close the door, rather than an accidental closure.

Conclusion

While bus doors can be accidentally closed, it doesn't happen often. Newer buses are designed with safety features to prevent injuries, but older or smaller buses might present more risks. Drivers and passengers need to be aware of the potential dangers and take necessary precautions.