Reflecting on the recent incident on the M53, Peter Bradley shares advice on how operators can prepare themselves for times of crisis
I don’t think there is anybody involved in the coach industry who could not have been moved by the tragic accident that occurred on 29 September on the M53 in the Wirral, involving a coach with school children on board. Two people, including the driver, lost their lives, with many others injured physically and who will carry the mental scars of what happened to them. There are families and friends who are grieving.
This is not the time or place for trying to understand what happened; there are official procedures in place for that. What we should do is reflect; think of those who have been involved in this incident and the many people from within the coach industry, outside agencies and probably countless others who provided and continue to provide support to those affected.
It is at tragic times such as these that people rally round, offer support, and go out of their way to get messages through to the relevant authorities. I spoke to one operator on that day who had clearly gone a long way to help his colleague and friend, to make sure they had all they needed at that moment in time, and I am sure he will be there in the weeks and months ahead as events unfold. I also understand that a well-known transport solicitor dropped everything to ensure that the right advice and wisdom was on hand as required.
But, however well we prepare, eliminate risk as best as we can, and take all the necessary precautions, sadly these events still happen from time to time. We are human beings; things happen that we cannot always control. While this is in no way comprehensive, here are a few thoughts as to what you can do should the unthinkable ever happen.
Firstly, having outside agencies to assist you is vital. I suspect most coach operators already have links to a solicitor that they respect and trust. If you haven’t, then I would find one. I have heard comments about the sums of money involved, but most firms I know of are aware of the financial constraints that many operators are under and have schemes to assist.
Dealing with the press is another issue. Depending on the incident, local or national press may call to find out what is going on, get updates and possibly, in some cases, get an exclusive. This is a hassle that you don’t need. Even if you want to keep journalists onside, you have many other things to think about – and I know through bitter experience that, when dealing with them under pressure, it is possible to say something you will regret later.
Most trade bodies offer ‘crisis control’ or something similar – a direct link to a press agency that will quickly prepare a statement and deal with media enquiries on your behalf. That helps put you back in control, and you can update as and when you want to.
Finally, rehearse – either in your mind, or actually have a physical exercise – as to what you would do if this sort of situation ever happens. Maybe the Finance Manager becomes the Crisis Co-ordinator, with a list of people and phone numbers to contact. Others within the office also drop their normal jobs to take on a special role, while someone keeps the day-to-day stuff going if that is appropriate. Having a plan in place (and practising once a year) will take some of the panic out of the situation if it occurs.
Back to the present, and my heart goes out to the family and friends of the deceased, those injured, and the coach company involved – thank you to all who supported and continue to support them.
