Rail workers in California have been banned from using cell phones while trains are moving - after 25 people were killed in a crash near Los Angeles two weeks ago. Investigators say the train engineer was sending text messages while at work. Rajesh Mirchandani reports:

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The California Public Utilities Commission, which regulates transportation in the state, has now banned rail employees from using mobile phones while working on a moving train. If they do so, they could now face a fine of up to $20,000. The measure strengthens an existing ban issued by the train company.

It was also partly prompted by another crash in June - then 14 people were hurt when two San Francisco trams collided. Investigators believe one of the drivers in that accident may also have been using a mobile phone.

Rajesh Mirchandani, BBC News, Los Angeles

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Investigators
people whose job is discovering information about people and/or events, especially crimes or accidents

concluded
decided (after consideration), confirmed

in charge of
driving (if you are in charge, you are in command or in a position of responsibility)

ploughed into
hit with great force

oncoming freight train
a train carrying goods, not people, that was moving in the opposite direction

collision
crash, i.e. when two objects hit each other

Public Utilities
in the US, government-regulated companies that provide essential public services, e.g. water, gas, electricity, or public transport

regulates transportation
adopts and enforces rules that apply to the movement of vehicles

face a fine of
be told to pay (by court)

prompted by
caused by; the result of

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