Lake Township, OH (January 16, 2025) – A 36-year-old Massillon man rear-ended a stopped Lake Local school bus on Wednesday afternoon, leaving three students with injuries. The Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to the crash, which occurred at approximately 3:44 PM in the southbound lane.
According to officials, the school bus had stopped to drop off students at their homes when a 2007 Chevrolet Equinox failed to maintain a safe stopping distance and collided with the rear of the bus. Despite the impact, the bus, which was carrying 48 students, sustained no structural damage.
The three injured students were treated at the scene but were not transported for further evaluation or treatment. Neither the school bus driver nor the driver of the Equinox reported injuries. The patrol emphasized that neither alcohol nor drugs appeared to be contributing factors in the incident.
Authorities continue to investigate the collision. In a statement, the Ohio State Highway Patrol highlighted the importance of driver attentiveness, particularly in residential areas and near school buses. “This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of proper adherence to stop distances when encountering a stationary school bus with its lights activated,” the patrol said.
Our thoughts go to the victims as we hope for their recovery.
School Bus Safety in Ohio
School buses are among the safest modes of transportation for students, but accidents can still occur due to driver inattention or failure to follow traffic laws. Ohio law requires drivers to stop at least 10 feet from a school bus displaying its red lights and extended stop arm. Violations of these laws put students at significant risk.
State statistics show that while school bus-related accidents are relatively rare, the consequences can be severe. Such incidents underscore the importance of driver caution in residential areas and near school zones. Following speed limits, maintaining safe stopping distances, and avoiding distractions are critical for preventing crashes.
For families and communities, the safety of children remains paramount. Education and enforcement of traffic laws, particularly those involving school buses, help reduce the risk of these incidents and ensure safer roads for everyone.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a school bus-related accident, contact Local Accident Reports for resources and support to address your concerns and navigate the aftermath of the event.