In a distressing incident, an 89-year-old woman, Ms. Ho, found herself in the hospital after a mishap on a Tower Transit public bus in Bukit Batok. The driver reportedly moved the bus before she could find a seat, resulting in a fall that left her with a head injury, according to a report by Mothership.
The incident highlights the need for enhanced safety measures, especially for elderly passengers who may require additional assistance during their journeys.
The Unfortunate Incident
On the morning of January 6, Ms. Ho boarded bus 173 at the Hillbrooks condominium bus stop in Bukit Batok. As she was walking to find a seat, the bus driver accelerated, causing her to lose her grip on a handrail and fall backward. Despite holding on, the abrupt movement led to injuries, including a head injury.
The fall not only resulted in physical injuries but also shattered Ms. Ho’s walking stick. The driver’s alleged lack of immediate assistance and failure to apologize added to the distress of the situation. Ms. Ho and her family were left to deal with the aftermath of the accident, including a six-day hospitalization.
Impact on Ms. Ho’s Mobility
Before the accident, Ms. Ho enjoyed an independent and active lifestyle, undertaking tasks such as cooking and traveling on her own. However, the incident has abruptly changed her circumstances.
Now reliant on a wheelchair, Ms. Ho requires assistance with daily activities and is undergoing physiotherapy to regain her strength as well as having to learn how to walk again.
Driver Disciplined
In response to the incident, Tower Transit issued a public apology, acknowledging the failure on the part of the bus captain.
The company has disciplined the driver and emphasized the importance of waiting until vulnerable passengers, including seniors, are seated before moving off. Tower Transit has reached out to Ms. Ho’s family to assist with medical claims and offered support.
The incident has prompted discussions about the need for improved safety measures on public transportation, especially for elderly passengers.
Ms. Ho’s granddaughter, Geraldine Toh, emphasized the importance of drivers ensuring that elderly passengers are seated before departure. Toh suggested constructive measures, such as incentivizing good service from drivers to enhance overall passenger experience.
Image source: Rainbowspeed4936 via Flickr (image used for illustration purpose only)