Weatherford School Bus Crash
Yesterday afternoon, an SUV rear-ended a school bus on Fort Worth Highway in Weatherford, Texas. By all accounts the wreck was certainly dramatic. The driver of the car, Becky Clark, had to be rescued from her vehicle which was wedged beneath the back of the bus. She was rushed to John Peter Smith Hospital in Ft. Worth and is currently reported to be in fair condition. Two students were injured as they exited the bus and were taken to Weatherford Regional Medical Clinic as a precaution but have since been released to their parents and were fortunately well enough to attend school today. The 47 other students from Boase Ikard Elementary School aboard the bus reported no injuries.
A press release from Weatherford ISD stated that the school bus was propelled forwards 15-20 feet due to the impact of the collision. Immediately following the crash, the driver of the bus thought she saw smoke and ordered an emergency evacuation of the bus. Weatherford ISD Superintendant, Dr. Deborah Cron, has applauded the quick thinking and responsible actions of the Durham School Services’ bus driver and I would absolutely have to echo her praise.
As a father, hearing news of an accident involving kids or a school bus always makes my heart leap up into my throat. We should all be thankful that none of the children on the bus were seriously harmed. I also hope that Ms. Clark makes a full and speedy recovery. Although the cause of the crash is not yet known, it should certainly give us all cause to pause for thought and remember the importance of basic safe driving practices such as focusing our attention on the road ahead and being aware of our surroundings.
Remember as well that it is illegal to pass a school bus which stops to pick up or drop off passengers. This law applies to drivers approaching from either direction. You must wait for the bus to pull off again unless the driver signals it is okay to pass or turns off his stop signals.
Information and commentary provided by Mark Anderson, Board Certified Personal Injury Lawyer.
