Bettendorf, IA — August 14, 2024, a man was injured following a pedestrian versus bus accident shortly before 9:30a.m. along Tanglefoot Lane.

According to authorities, an 81-year-old man was on foot in a crosswalk heading south across Tanglefoot Lane at the Devils Glen Road intersection when the accident took place.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, a bus traveling on Devils Glen Road attempted to make a left turn to head east on Tanglefoot Lane and struck the pedestrian in the crosswalk.

The man suffered reportedly critical injuries due to the collision; he was transported to a local medical facility by EMS in order to receive immediate treatment. No other injuries have been reported. The bus driver was the only person on board the bus at the time, according to reports. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identity of the victim—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When accidents like this happen, many people might assume they result from a simple mistake or misjudgment. However, based on my experience, incidents involving large vehicles, especially in intersections, often have deeper, more complex causes that require thorough investigation.

In this case, the intersection and crosswalk play significant roles. Investigators will need to determine whether the bus driver properly yielded to the pedestrian in the crosswalk, as required by law. Additionally, the timing of the traffic signals and the visibility of the pedestrian to the bus driver are critical factors that must be examined. Understanding whether the driver was distracted or if there were any visibility issues due to weather or the design of the intersection will be essential.

Beyond the immediate actions of those involved, it’s also important to consider the condition and operation of the bus itself. Regular maintenance and proper training for drivers are critical for public transportation safety. If the bus had any mechanical issues that contributed to the accident, or if the driver lacked adequate training, the transportation company might share responsibility for the crash.

Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the crash. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain vital evidence, it is crucial to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the crash receive the clarity and closure they deserve.