Fatal Collision: NJ Transit Bus Hits Pedestrian While Making a Right on Red March 6, 2024

  Fatal Collision: NJ Transit Bus Hits Pedestrian While Making a Right on Red

The streets of New Jersey have witnessed yet another tragic pedestrian fatality involving an NJ Transit bus, raising renewed concerns about safety and accountability. Frank Bauer, a 64-year-old resident of New Milford, succumbed to his injuries nearly two weeks after being struck by a bus at the intersection of Madison Avenue and River Road on the morning of February 21, New Milford police confirmed Wednesday.

The collision occurred around 6:30 a.m. as the empty NJ Transit bus was making a right-hand turn at a red light. Bauer was critically injured and rushed to a local hospital, where he fought for his life for days before ultimately passing away.

Officials stated that the bus driver was uninjured and not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the incident. NJ Transit confirmed the bus had just left the garage and was on its way to begin its daily route along the 167 line between Bergenfield and the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

While authorities have called the incident an “unfortunate accident,” the driver was issued two summonses. However, questions linger: Could this tragedy have been prevented?

A Growing Concern for Pedestrian Safety

This fatality adds to a growing number of pedestrian incidents involving NJ Transit buses. While the agency often cites individual driver error or “accidents,” critics argue these incidents highlight systemic issues.

Making right turns on red lights can be particularly dangerous for pedestrians, especially during early morning hours when visibility is reduced. Given the stakes, why isn’t more being done to implement stricter safety measures, such as banning right-on-red turns for large vehicles or mandating advanced pedestrian safety technology on NJ Transit buses?

Accountability and Action Needed

Although the driver received citations, it is essential to examine whether NJ Transit’s policies and practices adequately prioritize pedestrian safety. Training programs, route designs, and driver oversight all play a role in preventing these tragic outcomes.

As Frank Bauer’s family grieves this unimaginable loss, the public must demand answers and action. How many more lives must be lost before NJ Transit takes proactive steps to protect pedestrians?

Frank Bauer’s death is not just another statistic. It is a call to action for safer streets, better oversight, and accountability from NJ Transit. His life and the lives of countless others who walk New Jersey’s streets every day depend on it.