Overview of the Bus Accident
A double-decker bus carrying secondary school students from Uttaradit overturned on the Phitsanulok-Nakhon Sawan Road around 10am on Friday, resulting in several students being injured. The incident has raised concerns about road safety and the causes behind such accidents.
The driver of the bus claimed that the brakes had locked, leading to the accident. This statement is currently under investigation by local authorities. The incident occurred in Banphot Phisai district, where Pol Lt Suwit Boonworanuch, an investigator at Nong Krot Police Station, received a report of the accident.
Details of the Incident
At the scene, officers found a double-decker, 10-wheel bus lying on its side off the road. The bus was carrying 48 Mathayom Suksa 3 (Grade 9) students, two teachers, and two drivers en route to a field trip at Bueng Boraphet.
Most of the students sustained minor injuries, and no fatalities were reported. Local residents played a crucial role in assisting the students, helping them out of the bus and taking them to Banphot Phisai Hospital for medical attention.
Driver’s Statement and Breath Alcohol Test
Driver Prachuap Thongkert told police that the vehicle overturned after the brakes locked. A breath alcohol test conducted on the driver showed zero alcohol in his system, which rules out intoxication as a factor in the accident. However, the exact cause of the brake failure remains unclear.
Witness Accounts
A witness reported hearing a loud noise similar to a tyre burst but also suspected that the driver might have fallen asleep. The bus was traveling in the wrong lane on a long, straight section of road, which could have contributed to the accident. These accounts are being considered as part of the ongoing investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are currently investigating the exact cause of the accident. They are examining various factors, including the condition of the bus, the actions of the driver, and the road conditions at the time of the incident. The findings from this investigation will be critical in determining whether any safety protocols were violated and what steps can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the importance of maintaining road safety and ensuring that vehicles used for transporting students are regularly inspected and maintained. It also underscores the need for driver training and awareness, particularly on high-risk roads. As the investigation continues, further details will emerge, providing clarity on the events that led to the accident and guiding future preventive measures.