Simulated School Bus Crash Instructional For Drivers | ABC30 Fresno

kfsn

By ABC30

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Fresno, CA Bus drivers had a front row seat watching Tulare emergency crews rescue students in a mock bus accident Saturday.

The weather was warm and muggy in Tulare Saturday afternoon when out of no where…A school bus flips on its side. This, however, is a simulation and no one is really hurt.

These bus drivers are the target audience of this demonstration at Mission Oak high school in Tulare. They are representing 40 different school districts around California. Everyone is learning how to help emergency crews save lives on board.

Carol Trauger of Lemoore said: "It's very educational. It makes drivers more aware especially with the foggy season."

Fresno's Anita Wilson: "Everybody should know this. Because we never know what can happen."

Cards on each victim alert emergency crews to their injury.

During the exercise the bus drivers received a play by play description of what was going on.

There are over 200 bus drivers here learning what to do in case of an accident. Roy Lizardo said they better listen up, he's had a close call.

Two years ago Lizardo's bus was hit by a car traveling 60 mph.

"I couldn't believe it happened. I just couldn't believe it happened," exclaimed Lizardo.

Two students were on board. No one was hurt. That crash was part of the reason Lizardo wanted to attend Saturday. "This is an awesome activity. I wish every bus driver could attend it. Awesome. So much information," he said.

Tulare Battalion Chief Willard Epps said fortunately a serious bus accident has not happened in the Tulare/Visalia area in more than 20 years.

"The better educated they are the better and smoother the emergency operation will run," said Epps.

Attending this event was not a requirement for these drivers. They said it's just a great lesson outside the classroom that ensures safer passage of their precious cargo.