Chunky Morning Clouds and a Bus Collision in Charleston
Good morning, Charleston! It looks like the weather is trying to keep us on our toes today. We’re kicking off this December 13th with some clouds and sunshine. Don’t forget your jackets as temperatures hover around 61°F, thanks to those breezy northeast winds coming in at around 10 to 15 mph. Expect a cloudy start to the day, but as we move toward the afternoon, we might catch some clear skies. Tonight, we’re looking at a low of 48°F under mostly cloudy skies. So, it’s a classic Charleston mix!
What Happened in the Morning Chaos?
Now, let’s dive into some news that got the whole community buzzing. A disturbing traffic incident unfolded on November 11 when a school bus collided with a pickup truck on Morrison Drive near Isabella Street. The shocking crash sent ripples through the morning commute, blocking traffic in both directions!
As the sun peeked through the clouds that day, a school bus was transporting four students on its way to Daniel Jenkins Academy High School in North Charleston. Just before 8 a.m., disaster struck when the bus driver lost control due to rainy conditions and ended up in oncoming traffic, leading to a heart-stopping collision.
Details from the Scene
According to reports from the Charleston Police Department, the inclement weather and a wet roadway were the culprit behind this unfortunate mishap. Police responded quickly, with several first responders rushing to the scene of the crash.
In total, both drivers were injured, but thankfully, the injuries were classified as non-life-threatening. However, the impact was intense enough to send all four students onboard to the hospital. One particularly distressing 911 call revealed that one of the young passengers was so shaken that they experienced a breakdown due to the anxiety and fear of what had just occurred.
As mangled bits of the grey GMC pickup truck were strewn across the road, it became clear that this wasn’t just another fender-bender. The truck’s driver has since filed a lawsuit against First Student, the company that operates the school bus. Allegations include speeding in recklessly slippery conditions, failing to pay adequate attention, and driving too fast for the circumstances.
More Legal Trouble for First Student
This isn’t the first time First Student has faced legal challenges. Just last year, the company was embroiled in separate incidents involving its school buses in Charleston County. One involved a bus that ran off the road, throwing students about, while another incident saw a bus dangerously pull in front of a vehicle.
All of this has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of school transportation in our lovely city. It’s worth mentioning that a spokesperson from First Student did not provide any specific details on how often their buses are involved in collisions; however, they stated that safety practices are a top priority.
Community Reactions
Residents in Charleston have expressed their concerns about the safety of school routes, especially during unpredictable weather conditions. This incident has not only highlighted issues regarding driver attention but has also prompted discussions on improving safety measures when it comes to student transportation.
As the day unfolds with those playful sun rays peeking through, let’s keep our fingers crossed for a safer future. Remember, whether you’re on the road, catching the bus, or just enjoying your day, a little awareness can go a long way in making our community a safer place!
Until next time, Charleston! Stay safe and warm!
