Bus Driver At Fault For Fatal Car Accident
Last month, Treasure Valley residents were shocked to read about a school bus accident that left one child dead and several in the hospital. Now, according to the Idaho Statesman, the story has grown more complicated with the release of a report written by the Idaho State Police (ISP) and submitted to the Idaho Department of Transportation.
The ISP determined that the primary cause of the accident was the fact that Debra Boatwright, the bus driver, failed to yield to a dump truck that had the right of way. However, the story behind the early morning crash may not be as simple as that. The report also details the fact that the dump-truck driver, Charles Samuel Derby, drove onto the shoulder before quickly crossing back onto the road, where Boatwright was pulling into the intersection.
Although Derby did not have a stop sign and Boatwright did, the erratic driving could indicate that Derby was intoxicated. Police said that Derby has a history of using marijuana and driving under the influence, but they are not certain if he was intoxicated when the crash occurred. Currently, they are awaiting the results of a blood test.
No Criminal Charges Have Been Filed And Police Continue To Investigate
Police initially told reporters that charges were likely to follow the report, but none have been filed. Investigators say that they are waiting for the results of the blood tests for both Boatwright and Derby. The impact of the crash killed 11-year-old Daniel Cook and injured four other children, two of which were released within 24 hours. The other two received serious injuries, but they are expected to fully recover.
The families of the children who were injured now face expensive medical bills. Unfortunately, even if it is determined that one of the drivers acted negligently, insurance companies often offer injured parties much less than they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident by a drunk or otherwise negligent driver, we can help you recover the compensation that you deserve. At the Law Offices of Johnson & Lundgreen, we have decades of experience representing Meridian residents. To schedule a free consultation, Call Us At 208-376-5256 Today!
So Far, No Personal-Injury Lawsuits Have Been Filed Against Either Driver
The police reported that they found several equipment violations on Derby’s truck, but they have not said whether or not those violations played a role in the crash. Boatwright remains on leave after the accident, and the school district will review the police report before reinstating her. She has been driving for the district for more than five years.
Throughout the past 20 years, the attorneys at the Law Offices of Johnson & Lundgreen have successfully handled thousands of personal-injury claims, and we have the experience necessary to help you find justice in a civil courtroom. To discuss your car accident in Meridian, Call Us At 208-376-5256 Today!
