A San Francisco train driver who allegedly \u201cfell asleep at the wheel\u201d triggered panic on board after a packed light-rail coach lurched violently while exiting a tunnel, according to newly surfaced CCTV footage.<\/p>\n
The incident occurred around 8.37 am on 24 September, when a San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) operator \u2014 later found to be fatigued \u2014 appeared to momentarily doze off at the controls. The train, travelling at nearly 80kmph (50mph), jolted sharply while navigating a curve, sending several commuters stumbling into walls and onto the floor, The Independent reported.<\/p>\n
The train sped past its scheduled stop before halting abruptly a short distance ahead. No derailment or injuries were reported.<\/p>\n
In the video, In the footage, the driver\u2019s eyes appear shut and her head leans to one side just as passengers are jolted. The startled driver can be heard telling anxious passengers: \u201cRelax\u2026 we didn\u2019t crash,\u201d while apologising repeatedly.<\/p>\n
Paramedics rushed to the spot and the SFMTA launched a probe. In a statement issued on 10 November, the agency confirmed that \u201coperator fatigue\u201d caused the error and said the driver has been placed on non-driving duty pending further action. A full inspection found no issues with the brakes, tracks or other systems.<\/p>\n
The transport body said it has reinforced training on fatigue management and is working with the manufacturer on software to automatically limit speeds in certain sections.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know this was a frightening experience for our riders\u2026 Safety is always our top priority,\u201d SFMTA Director of Transportation Julie Kirschbaum said in a statement.<\/p>\n