An empty logging truck driving on U.S. 301 slammed into the back of a Florida school bus carrying 15 children. The school bus crash occurred while the bus was stopped to let children off the bus. Some parents were waiting at the bus stop for their children. The logging truck was speeding toward the back of the bus and slammed directly into it. The force of the collision caused the bus to move about 40 yards into a nearby field.
Fortunately, the bus driver lessened the severity of the accident by pressing the accelerator after seeing the truck speeding toward the bus. Luckily, no one died from the crash; however, seven children were taken to the hospital and treated for injuries, as well as three adults.
The cause of the crash was not immediately known, but weather may have been a factor, as it was raining at the time of the crash. Furthermore, earlier in the day, the truck had been reported as driving recklessly.
New technology being employed to reduce school bus accidents
According the Department of Transportation, 23 million children ride a school bus every day. Each time a school bus stops, the driver lets other drivers know to stop by flashing lights and putting out a stop sign. Nevertheless, drivers frequently fail to stop.
In order to catch violators and reduce the potential for accidents, police are using new technology. School districts are installing cameras that activate when school buses stop. The cameras function like traffic signal cameras by capturing license plate numbers of cars that drive by school buses that are stopped. Fines can range from $100 to $1,000 and violators receive notices in the mail.
Contact a Miami bus accident attorney
If your child is involved in a school bus accident, an experienced Miami school bus accident attorney can help protect your child’s rights. The safety of your child is paramount, and the Perez-Gurri Law Firm wants to help you and your child recover compensation you deserve. From filing the necessary insurance claim to managing the collection and payment of medical bills, the Perez-Gurri Law Firm will help you throughout the entire process.
Contact our firm today for a free initial consultation and case evaluation. Call our office at 305.661.1200 or visit our office in Coral Gables, Florida.