Driver distraction has the potential to contribute to or cause serious accidents and incidents.
In this case the driver of the passenger train was distracted by engaging in a non-operational conversation with the train manager, and failed to stop his train at a red signal.
On 23 October 2013, the Commission recommended that the Chief Executive of KiwiRail takes the necessary action to reinforce to all staff the existing rule forbidding non-operational conversation with train drivers, and use some means of monitoring compliance with the rule.