Jefferson, MO (January 15, 2025) – A crash involving a school bus and a minivan occurred Tuesday afternoon on eastbound Route A near Burning Tree Ln. The collision was reported at approximately 4:17 PM, drawing emergency responders from the Joachim Plattin Ambulance District and Festus Police Department.
The accident took place when a 2009 International PB305 school bus attempted a right turn onto Burning Tree Ln. A 2016 Honda Odyssey, traveling behind the bus, struck the rear of the school bus after braking. The school bus came to rest on Burning Tree Ln, while the minivan blocked the eastbound lane of Route A.
Emergency responders treated three individuals from the minivan for injuries. A 33-year-old female driver and two juvenile passengers, ages 4 and 10, were transported to Mercy Hospital Jefferson for further evaluation. The 66-year-old male school bus driver was uninjured. Both vehicles sustained significant damage and were towed from the scene. Authorities are currently investigating the incident to determine contributing factors.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this accident.
School Bus Safety in Missouri
School buses are among the safest modes of transportation for children, but accidents can still occur. Incidents involving buses often result from driver errors, road conditions, or sudden braking situations. In Missouri, ensuring safety near school buses requires vigilance from all drivers, especially during pick-up and drop-off times or in high-traffic areas.
Drivers should maintain a safe distance from school buses, especially when following closely. Sudden stops and turns are common, and maintaining adequate space can help prevent rear-end collisions. Furthermore, children boarding or exiting buses should be monitored closely to avoid injuries.
Accidents involving large vehicles like school buses and minivans often require detailed investigations to ensure the safety of all parties and identify potential areas for improvement. Staying attentive to traffic conditions and ensuring vehicles are in optimal working condition can reduce the likelihood of accidents.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, contact Local Accident Reports for assistance.