Aussie tour bus operator could face up to $6 million penalty over driver death

Aussie tour bus operator could face up to $6 million penalty over driver death

The largest bus operator in the Northern Territory could be facing a maximum penalty of over $6 million dollars over the death of a driver in 2017.

Buslink NT is facing multiple charges over the incident after a statement from NT WorkSafe said their investigation found the company failed to put adequate control measures in place, despite numerous safety reports within the industry covering the issue, according to ABC News.

On 26 October 2017, a Buslink vehicle was taking cruise ship passengers on a day trip when tragedy struck outside the Humpty Doo Hotel during a lunch break.

The driver noticed the bus had begun to roll forward and tried to open the door to stop the vehicle when she fell in its path.

The 59-year old was found by a member of the tour group and paramedics were called but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

ABC News reported it has been alleged that Buslink NT failed in their health and safety duties and placed passengers and pedestrians at risk. Each of the six charges the company faces carries a maximum penalty of $1,500,000.

The company will face the Darwin Local Court on 19 November 2019.

Travel Weekly has reached out to Buslink for comment.

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