New School Year Sees Two School Bus Accidents

School just started up again for most kids in the U.S., and already Texas has seen two separate car accidents involving school buses. As the school year comes into full swing, drivers need to be mindful of the rules when driving near buses.

Both accidents occurred in the early hours of Friday, September 3, though it hasn’t been reported whether or not the buses were carrying children at the time of the crashes.

In Houston, at least three vehicles were involved in a crash with a Cy-Fair ISD school bus near 43rd and Binge. Just before 7:30 a.m., the bus crashed into an SUV at the intersection before two other vehicles traveling in different directions were also involved. SkyEye for ABC13 reports that the hood of the SUV was crumpled in the accident.

At this time, it is unknown whether anyone was injured in the crash.

The second incident occurred in Tyler, Texas, and also has been reported with limited details. On Friday morning, a multi-vehicle crash happened on Loop 323 past University Boulevard heading toward McDonald Street. Following the collision, both lanes of the Loop were closed for processing and clean-up.

Based on photos of the crash, it appears that at least three vehicles were involved in the incident. The vehicles visible do not seem to have sustained enough damage to result in a fatality, though it has not been ruled out by reporters.

In 2020, there were a total of 611 school bus accidents in Texas. Thankfully, the vast majority of those accidents did not result in any injuries at all. However, it’s still important that each of us remembers how to keep ourselves and our children safe while driving near school buses.

The key to being a responsible driver when you encounter a school bus is staying alert. School buses stop more often than other vehicles, so it’s important that you’re always ready to react to any speed changes or stops. 

Staying alert will also help you remember to follow the school bus rules listed below:

School buses aren’t the only yearly fall-time addition to Texas traffic: drivers also need to stay aware of kids walking to and from school. Always watch for pedestrians in crosswalks, and take extra care in school and play zones. Even if you technically have the right-of-way, always be careful not to strike any pedestrians who may be crossing.

Drivers are also more likely to see children riding their bikes during the school year. When you come upon a bicyclist on the road, slow down and always leave at least 3 feet of clearance between you and the bike. Let bikes proceed through intersections first to prevent collisions during turns.

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Source : KLTV7 , ABC13

New School Year Sees Two School Bus Accidents

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