1 Injured in Rear-End Crash Involving School Bus
School buses are supposed to be the safest vehicles for children to be in, but sometimes they can be involved in accidents. A school bus in Tennessee was recently rear-ended by a passenger vehicle. Fortunately, no students were injured.
A car crashed into the back of a school bus in Oakland, Tennessee on the morning of March 31. The crash took place at Highway 64 and Hickory Lake Road in the eastbound lanes. According to Fayette County Public Schools, the vehicle rear-ended bus 88 while 10 students were on board. Another child was about to board at the time of the accident.
An occupant of the vehicle was trapped and had to be rescued by the Oakland Fire Department. They were taken to a local hospital in critical condition.
The bus was on its way to Fayette Ware Comprehensive High School at the time of the crash. Nobody on the bus was injured. However, the school district said some buses may be running late due to the accident.
Causes of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can be caused by the bus driver, other motorists, or other issues. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Driver negligence. Speeding, fatigue, distracted driving, and impaired driving (due to alcohol or drugs) are significant contributors.
- Poor vehicle maintenance. Brake failure, worn tires, and malfunctioning lights or steering can lead to accidents.
- Weather conditions. Rain, fog, ice, or snow can reduce visibility and road traction, making it difficult to control the bus.
- Road conditions. Potholes, construction zones, and poorly marked lanes can increase the risk of a crash.
- Other drivers’ actions – Reckless or inattentive motorists may cut off or collide with buses, causing accidents.
- Mechanical defects. Manufacturer defects in brakes, tires, or steering systems can lead to catastrophic failures.
- Inadequate driver training. Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers may struggle with handling large vehicles, especially in emergencies.
- Pedestrian and bicyclist errors. Sudden movements or crossing against traffic signals can lead to collisions.
- Driver fatigue. Long shifts and inadequate rest breaks can reduce reaction time and alertness.
Buses are heavy-duty vehicles. Victims of bus accidents often face significant damages. Compensation in these cases may include the following:
- Medical expenses. These expenses include emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and long-term rehabilitation.
- Lost wages. Victims can receive reimbursement for income lost due to time away from work.
- Pain and suffering. A victim may suffer from physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Contact Us Today
Accidents involving buses can be serious in nature. Buses are often much heavier than passenger vehicles, and while they are good at protecting students and others on the bus, they can cause a lot of damage to other vehicles.
A Mt. Juliet bus accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC understands that bus accidents can be complex. We also understand the unique challenges involved. Get the help you need today by scheduling a consultation. Fill out the online form or give us a call at (615) 622-6060.
Source:
wreg.com/news/local/car-crashes-into-school-bus-on-highway-64/
