Rock Hill, NY — January 27, 2025, two people were injured in a bus accident at about 9 a.m. on State Route 17 near Bridgeville Road.

Authorities said a school bus was involved in the crash, but they have not released any additional information at this time.

Two Liberty Central School District students were injured in the crash, according to authorities.

The bus involved in the crash was reportedly operated by Rolling V Bus Corp. It was transporting students from several school districts at the time.

The accident is still under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

Crashes involving school buses are always a cause for concern, particularly when students are injured. While information about this incident on State Route 17 is limited, it raises important questions about the events leading up to the crash and the steps that can be taken to ensure student safety.

One critical area of focus is the condition and operation of the school bus itself. Investigators will need to determine whether the driver acted appropriately and was following all safety protocols at the time of the crash. Was the driver distracted or fatigued? Were they trained and qualified to handle the responsibilities of transporting students safely? Evidence such as the bus’s engine control module (ECM) data and any onboard cameras can provide valuable insights into the driver’s actions and the bus’s movements leading up to the collision.

The mechanical condition of the bus is another key factor. School buses must meet rigorous safety standards, but failures in maintenance — such as brake issues, tire problems or steering malfunctions — can still occur. A detailed inspection of the bus and its maintenance records will help determine whether mechanical issues contributed to the crash.

Investigators must also evaluate the road and traffic conditions at the time of the incident. State Route 17 is a heavily traveled road, and early morning traffic can present unique challenges. Was the road slick or visibility limited due to weather? Was the crash site near a construction zone, sharp curve or other potential hazards? These elements can often play a role in collisions and deserve careful scrutiny.

Additionally, the role of other vehicles or drivers involved in the crash needs to be clarified. Was this a single-vehicle incident, or did another driver’s actions contribute to the collision? A complete investigation will need to gather statements from all parties involved, as well as any witnesses.

Finally, it’s worth examining the broader safety protocols of the bus operator. Were students seated properly and using available safety restraints? Do the company’s safety and maintenance policies meet or exceed regulatory standards? These questions are critical in ensuring that bus companies prioritize the safety of the children they transport.

The investigation must dig deeply into the factors at play to ensure all risks are understood and addressed. By focusing on the driver’s actions, the condition of the bus and the road environment, authorities can better understand what happened and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.