Sometimes, a person makes a mistake that ends up killing others. It’s horrible when that mistake involves adults, but it’s even worse when that mistake results in the death of a child.
On Dec. 23, a report about a New Jersey bus driver stated that the driver had pleaded guilty to a collision that led to the death of two people, a fifth-grader and a teacher.
What happened leading up to the two people’s deaths?
In the case, the bus driver, a 79-year-old man, allegedly made an illegal U-turn on the highway. At that point, the bus, which was carrying 44 people, was hit by a dump truck. A 51-year-old teacher and a 10-year-old student were killed. Dozens of children were hurt in the crash.
The bus driver was charged with several crimes including assault by auto, reckless vehicular homicide and child endangerment. The prosecution agreed to a 10-year sentence for the 79-year-old driver. With the guilty plea, 20 additional assault by auto charges were dismissed.
As a result of this crash, the governor signed four new safety bills. One requires school bus drivers to comply with federal safety regulations, such as taking a physical fitness test once they turn 70. Another requires drivers to take safety classes twice each year.
This situation was a true tragedy for everyone involved. The two people who lost their lives can never regain them, and dozens of children were hurt. If you or someone you love is hurt in a crash like this one, remember that you can also seek a claim against the dangerous driver.
