Sutton Coldfield rail crash
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The Sutton Coldfield train disaster took place on 23 January 1955, when an express passenger train from York to Bristol, England, took the sharp curve into Sutton Coldfield railway station at about 55-60 mph (88-96 km/h) - or twice the permitted speed of 30 mph.
The train derailed and collided with the platforms, severely damaging the carriages, engine and buildings. 17 people, including the train crew, were killed and 43 injured.
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[edit] Possible Causes
Although the excessive speed was an obvious major factor in the accident, the exact cause was never fully established. The accident occurred in broad daylight and the driver knew the line well, so the reason for the excessive speed was never established - although it is worth noting that the train was making up some time and was running late. There was no evidence of mechanical failure on the train.
There was a gradient to climb after the station, and the engine (like most steam trains at the time) was not fitted with a speedometer. It seems therefore that the driver knew he was exceeding the speed limit but did not realise it would be dangerous (similarly to Salisbury 1906). The engine was riding roughly and this may have contributed to him misjudging the speed.
[edit] Consequences
Following this accident, lineside speed restriction signs were universally adopted; previously there had been no visual reminder to the driver of speed restrictions on many routes. The Inspector also suggested the use of speed recorders, as in France, but this was not adopted.
