Clear Lake, SD — November 12, 2024, two people were injured in a car versus bus accident at approximately 4:00 p.m. along 475th Avenue.

According to authorities, the accident occurred in the vicinity of the 475th Avenue and 181A intersection.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, a collision took place between a passenger vehicle and a school bus. The person who had been behind the wheel of the bus sustained minor injuries, according to reports, while the driver of the passenger vehicle sustained severe injuries. They were each transported to local medical facilities by EMS in order to receive necessary treatment. No other injuries have been reported. Additional details pertaining to this incident are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I hear about accidents involving school buses, I’m reminded that these incidents often raise unique concerns that go beyond what we might consider in a typical collision. While most people think of buses as inherently safer due to their size and visibility, from my experience, crashes involving buses require a detailed investigation to determine every factor that might have contributed to the outcome.

At this point, the available details don’t shed much light on what led to this collision, but it’s critical to look closely at the actions of both drivers. For instance, investigators should determine whether either driver was distracted, fatigued, or operating under any conditions that might have impaired their reaction times. School bus drivers, in particular, are held to a higher standard of safety, and any evidence suggesting a lapse in attention or judgment could influence how responsibility is assigned. Investigating these concerns is central to coming to a full understanding of who might share responsibility in cases like this.

Another key aspect is the condition of the vehicles involved. School buses undergo rigorous maintenance protocols, as they carry such valuable cargo, but it’s still essential to verify that the bus was in sound operating condition at the time of the accident. Brake function, lighting, and visibility factors all play an essential role in avoiding collisions, especially when buses interact with smaller passenger vehicles. If maintenance issues are found, this could indicate that liability may not rest solely with the drivers.

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