Athol, ID (December 8, 2024) – A two-vehicle crash involving a school bus and a passenger car occurred Friday afternoon at State Highway 54 and Clagstone Rd in Kootenai County. The collision, which happened around 3:40 PM, resulted in minor injuries and significant traffic disruptions.
According to the Idaho State Police (ISP), a 2005 International school bus operated by a 38-year-old female from Spirit Lake was traveling southbound on Clagstone Rd when it failed to yield to traffic on State Highway 54. The bus collided with an eastbound 2003 Honda Civic driven by a 47-year-old male from Spirit Lake. The impact caused both vehicles to come to rest on the south side of the highway, with the school bus striking and supporting a Kootenai Electric power pole.
The bus, belonging to Lakeland Joint School District 272, was carrying 31 students from Athol Elementary School. One student sustained a cut lip and was treated at the scene. No other injuries among the students were reported. EMS crews from Kootenai County evaluated all the bus occupants before transferring them to another bus, which transported the students to Real Life Ministries, where they were safely reunited with their parents.
The driver of the Honda Civic sustained injuries and was transported via ground ambulance to Kootenai Health for treatment. Traffic on Clagstone Rd remained blocked for approximately 2.5 hours to allow emergency responders to assist those involved and clear the scene.
ISP continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
School Bus Accidents in Idaho
While relatively uncommon, school bus accidents can pose serious risks to students and other road users. This incident highlights the importance of adherence to traffic laws, especially at intersections where yielding to oncoming traffic is critical to preventing collisions.
Like those in Kootenai County, Idaho’s rural roads often present challenges due to stop-controlled intersections and variable traffic conditions. Drivers must remain vigilant and ensure they come to a full stop and yield when necessary to avoid accidents.
While the students in this crash were fortunate to escape with minimal injuries, the event underscores the value of safety protocols, such as seatbelt use and regular vehicle safety checks. The driver of the Honda, who was not wearing a seatbelt, suffered more significant injuries, reinforcing the importance of proper restraint use for all vehicle occupants.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, Local Accident Reports can provide resources and guidance. Contact us today to learn more about your rights and options for recovery.