Crash Prompts LIRR to Review Cell Phone Policy

The Long Island Rail Road is reviewing its cell-phone policy after the recent trolley crash in the Boston area.

Currently, LIRR engineers, who operate the trains, can carry personal cell phones while on duty. But they must be shut off and stowed in a bag.

"Our policy is that, in the event of an emergency, they would be able to use it," railroad spokesman Joe Calderone told Newsday.

Friday's accident occurred when the trolley operator was reportedly sending his girlfriend a text message and failed to see a red light.

The trolley smashed into the back of another trolley, injuring 49 people.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority on Saturday announced it was banning train operators and bus drivers from carrying cell phones on board.

LIRR officials had considered changing the long-standing policy after the Los Angeles commuter train collided with a freight locomotive on Sept. 12, killing 25 people.

LIRR officials haven't said when they will decide whether to ban employees' cell phones.