Grand Ridge, FL — January 14, 2025, seven people were injured in a bus accident at about 7 a.m. on U.S. Route 90.

Authorities said a Jackson County school bus was stopped near Indiana Avenue to pick up some students when it was struck from behind by an unspecified SUV. The bus had its warning lights when it was hit.

There were 35 students on the bus on at the time of the crash, according to authorities. Six of them were hospitalized with minor injuries.

The 25-year-old woman who was driving the SUV suffered critical injuries in the crash. authorities said.

The accident is still being investigated.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

This crash on U.S. Route 90 highlights the critical importance of attentiveness when approaching stopped school buses. With seven people injured, understanding the circumstances that led to the collision is essential to ensuring accountability and improving safety practices.

The most pressing question is why the SUV failed to stop for the school bus. Authorities indicate that the bus had its warning lights activated, which is a clear signal for other drivers to slow down and stop. Investigators will likely examine whether the SUV driver was distracted, speeding or otherwise inattentive. Evidence such as skid marks, the SUV’s event data recorder (EDR), and any available surveillance footage will be key to determining whether the driver had sufficient time and distance to react.

The severe injuries sustained by the SUV driver suggest a significant force of impact, raising questions about the speed at which the vehicle was traveling. High-speed collisions not only increase the likelihood of injuries but also make it much harder for drivers to avoid hazards.

Another important factor is the safety measures in place on the school bus. While six students were hospitalized with minor injuries, the remaining passengers were reportedly unharmed. This indicates that the bus’s structural design and safety protocols, such as compartmentalized seating, helped mitigate the impact. However, it’s important for investigators to confirm that all safety systems, including lights and stop arms, were functioning properly at the time of the crash.

The role of the roadway itself also warrants examination. Was the area well-marked, with clear signage indicating the presence of school bus stops? Was visibility reduced due to weather, lighting or other factors? These elements can contribute to crashes, even when drivers have the best intentions.

This crash underscores the need for heightened awareness and caution around school buses, which transport some of the most vulnerable passengers on the road. For the injured students, their families and the SUV driver, finding answers about what caused this collision is critical.