Surveillance video shows the moment an 18-wheeler crashed into a Bastrop ISD school bus. The crash occurred on the intersection of Highway 71 just before 8 a.m. on Oct. 21.
There were 20 students from four different Bastrop ISD campuses were on board the bus when the 18-wheeler broadsided them while the bus attempted to make a left turn from Truck Hill Lane to Highway 71 westbound.
The video shows the school bus stopped at the intersection. When the light turned green, the bus enters the intersection and within sections is struck on the driver’s side by a fast-moving 18-wheeler.
“The bus driver advised he had a green light. He waited before he turned and he was turning right onto State Highway 71,” said Sgt. Robbie Barrera, Texas DPS.
The driver of the 18-wheeler said he had a yellow light but was unable to stop in time. The driver also reportedly stated because the vehicle would not stop he “took evasive action” and hit the shoulder.
Witnesses to the crash began helping students and the bus driver.
“Cause it was just chaos in the road basically everyone going everywhere trying to get these kids unloaded and safely off to the side where they’re out of dangers way,” said Jerimiah Owens, a witness to the crash.
Ten students were treated at local area hospitals, plus the driver. Eight students were taken by ambulance and another two were taken by their parents. Bastrop ISD reports that all injuries were minor and all involved are expected to be OK.
The Carlson Law Firm Can Help
School buses are among the safest methods of transportation for students. However, when a bus crash occurs, students can be left with serious and sometimes life-altering injuries.
Sending your students off to school should not be a nerve-racking experience.
An injury from a school bus crash can be difficult to prove and pursue. An expert Texas School Bus Crash Lawyer from The Carlson Law Firm can help you and your child get the compensation you deserve.
