Engineering and Applied Science Research (Sep 2022)
In-depth intercity bus crash investigation: Case study of fire-gutted bus in Thailand
Abstract
This paper presents the proposed measures to prevent traffic accidents from compressed natural gas (CNG) buses. The fire-gutted bus with a CNG system was investigated in detail of component and system defects as a case study, although many single bus accidents were recorded from and caused by errant bus drivers in Thailand. Thus, several measures were proposed to encourage safer road users from bus drivers in Thailand, such as drink-not-drive, GPS-monitored speed, and the readiness of rest areas, including driver fatigue prevention. While there are many existing vehicle standards for buses from United Nations (UN) regulation and Thailand, several buses have still erupted in flames. Therefore, the proposed measures from the investigation of the fire-gutted bus and the existing vehicle regulations can be used to enhance and accelerate actions in the approval of CNG bus and periodical technical inspection for roadworthiness. Through data information from the accident investigation and proposed technical inspection, the prevention of bus accidents with CNG systems can be continuously improved and enhanced under various traffic situations. Furthermore, the results from the investigation can be useful for forensic experts to support SDG Target 3.6 in reduction of deaths from road traffic accidents.
