Tour bus safety, a year after the deadly crash in San Bernardino

SAN BERNARDINO, CA - FEBRUARY 15: Eight crosses representing victims of recent tour bus crash sit on Highway 38 on February 15, 2013 in San Bernardino, California. Responding to the deadly tour bus crash in Southern California, teams of federal inspectors will target bus companies with a history of problems as part of a national crackdown aimed at weeding out unsafe operators. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

A year after a tour bus crash near Yucaipa killed 8 passengers, the safety regulations for California tour buses have not changed.

These mass transportation vehicles often operate without meeting safety standards, but regulatory agencies have not been able to increase regulation of these buses that often ferry people to nearby casinos.

A KPCC investigation found the California Highway Patrol didn’t always have the lists from the federal government or state regulatory agencies of businesses that have safety violations and shouldn’t be operating buses. Another, snag in beefing up inspections is in 2005 Congress banned surprise roadside safety inspections.

In light of the many tour bus accidents, what can be down to ensure the safety of passengers? How can regulatory agencies be streamlined, so future accidents can be avoided? What are the obstacles agencies are facing in making these vehicles safer?

Guests:

Ben Bergman, KPCC Business reporter

Joel Grover, NBC4 Reporter