The path of the commuter train between Heredia and San José doesn't appear to be getting any easier.

On its way to the capital, the new Heredia-San José train hit a bus at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, leaving seven bus passengers injured.

The accident occurred 100 meters west of the Calderón Guardia Hospital. The injured passengers were taken to the nearby hospital. Red Cross officials said that most were being treated for whiplash.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no severe injuries had been reported.

This is the train's second collision with a motor vehicle since its maiden voyage on Aug. 11. On Aug. 13, the train struck a 1992 Hyundai Elantra that was carrying three people.

The three passengers were taken to San Vincente de Paúl Hospital and treated for minor injuries.

The railroad crossings for the train do not have gates. Instead, an attendee at each intersection is supposed to alert traffic when the train is approaching.

The train has derailed twice in Tibás, north of San José, since it began service just over three weeks ago.

See the Aug. 28 print or digital edition of The Tico Times for more on the Heredia-San José train.