On Wednesday afternoon, a Hinds County school bus crash injured several students. According to WJTV News Channel 12, the bus was carrying at least nine children at the time of the wreck. Eye-witness reports indicate that the bus driver swerved to avoid crashing head-on with a minivan that crossed the centerline.
The school bus, heading from Main Street Restart Center, swerved off the roadway and crashed through a guardrail, finally stopping in heavy foliage. The driver reported that she was traveling eastbound on Old Highway 80, nearing Norrell Road, when the westbound van crossed over the centerline. As of Wednesday evening, the injured children were released from the hospital. At this time, the crash is being classified as a one-vehicle wreck, which is still under investigation by officials with the Mississippi Highway Patrol.
School Bus Safety
Although school buses are considered one of the safest ways to get children to and from school, they aren’t totally without risk. School buses are designed to be safer than smaller traditional passenger vehicles in avoiding crashes and preventing injury. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers parents tips to increase their child’s school bus safety. In fact, the greatest risk to bus riders is the “danger zone.” The “danger zone” is the area within 10 feet in front, behind and on each side of the bus.
NHTSA’s School Bus Safety Tips
- Wait for the driver to say it’s safe to board.
- When the driver says it is okay, always take five giant steps from the front of the bus before crossing in front of the vehicle.
- If you drop something while getting on or off the bus, ask the driver before you try to retrieve it.
- Keep loose items in your book bag.
- Sit facing forward and remain in your seat while the bus is moving.
- Be respectful of the driver and always follow instructions.
After a Wreck Involving a School Bus or Daycare Van
After any wreck involving a school bus or daycare van, the top priority is your child’s health. Since families may be facing medical bills and lost wages from missing work to take care of an injured child, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can stay abreast of official investigative developments, and be your advocate during a difficult time.
Coxwell & Associates has been helping Mississippians for 34 years. The law firm focuses its time and attention on serious injury cases and defending people charged with criminal offenses. The dedication of the lawyers is recognized across the entire state of Mississippi. If you have sustained a serious injury due to some person or company failing to follow the rules of safety, or if you are charged with a criminal offense, call one of the attorneys at Coxwell & Associates.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended as general information purposes only, and is not a substitute for legal advice. Anyone with a legal problem should consult a lawyer immediately.