A multi-vehicle collision involving two tourist buses and three passenger cars occurred Monday morning on the Oita Expressway in Japan [1, 2].
The crash disrupted major transit routes in Ōita Prefecture and raised questions regarding the safety of vehicles returning to service after maintenance.
The accident took place around 11 a.m. [1] in the downward lane of the expressway near the Yufuin interchange in Yufu City [1, 3]. Police said two tourist buses and three passenger cars were involved in the wreck [1].
According to police, one of the buses was conducting a test-run following repairs and was traveling toward a safari park in Usa [1]. A total of 70 passengers were on the two buses at the time of the incident [1].
Emergency services reported 12 total injuries, including a driver [1]. There are conflicting reports regarding the number of people transported to medical facilities. ANNnewsCH reported at least two people were taken to the hospital [1], while Livedoor reported five people were transported [2].
The collision forced a significant road closure between the Kuju Interchange and the Yufuin Interchange [1]. Police, fire services, and the bus operating company responded to the scene to manage the wreckage, and assist the injured [1, 2].
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash [1]. A police spokesperson said, "There was an accident involving two sightseeing buses and three passenger cars" [1].
“A total of 70 passengers were on the two buses at the time of the incident.”
The involvement of a bus on a post-repair test-run suggests that investigators will likely scrutinize the mechanical integrity of the vehicle and the protocols used by the operating company to verify safety before returning a bus to active service.
