Tailgating Bus Driver Cited in Accident
Nine Children Injured in a Rear-End Collision
An inattentive school bus driver was responsible for causing a recent Hartford-area crash that left nine children complaining of pain. Police on the scene discovered that the rear-end accident (the bus struck the rear of an SUV) was the result of the bus driver following too closely. She was cited for tailgating.
Fortunately, none of the children on the bus (or the passengers of the SUV) suffered any serious injuries as a result of this crash. That is not always the case, obviously. A crash between two disparately sized vehicles – such as one involving a passenger car and a bus – typically results in serious injury or even death.
Tailgating Causes Thousands of Accidents Every Year
Tailgating is one of the leading causes of car accidents around the country. This is especially true in New Jersey, since it has the somewhat dubious honor of being the most densely populated state in America. Police in New Jersey are focusing their efforts on eradicating tailgating and stemming the tide of aggressive driving as a whole. As part of their “Safe Passage” program, they are harnessing state-of-the-art laser technology to assess following distances and are stopping and ticketing drivers accordingly. Fines for following too closely start at $140 and come with a minimum of five motor vehicle points.
Particularly Important for Large Vehicles to Stay Aware
Larger vehicles like buses, motor homes and tractor-trailers dwarf smaller vehicles on the road. Their increased size and weight are vital to ensuring the comfort of passengers and having adequate cargo space. For all their benefits, however, these vehicles are inherently dangerous if handled negligently. That is why it is important that drivers remain vigilant, never forgetting the extra space their vehicles require on the roadway or the increased stopping distance they need to bring those vehicles to a halt.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by another party’s tailgating, you should consult an experienced personal injury attorney in your area to learn more about your rights and legal options.