Crashes

Ø  Stop and secure the vehicle immediately. ALWAYS ON THE SAME SIDE AS THE CRASH – NEVER ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE LANE.

Ø  Activate 4-way hazard lights, if operable.

Ø  Remain at the scene of the crash (there is a severe penalty for any person convicted of leaving the scene of the crash).

Ø  Make certain all passengers are safe. If it is determined that it is unsafe to keep passengers inside the school transportation vehicle, evacuate the passengers to a safe place, away from traffic.

Ø  Notify the proper law enforcement authority and school administrator immediately. If necessary, request emergency medical assistance. On accident alert days, follow the reporting procedures as set out by the local law enforcement agency.

Ø  Check for injuries; render any person injured in the crash reasonable assistance. Remember: Never do more than you are trained to do.

Ø  Remain alert regarding fire or the possibility of fire in any of the vehicles involved in the crash.

Ø  Check for ruptured fuel tank and fuel lines.

Ø  Check for electrical fire.

Ø  Check for hot tires that may catch fire. This is caused by metal rubbing against a tire from impact to the final resting place.

Ø  Mark the scene with emergency reflective triangles as required by Colorado State Statute (within 10 minutes) as specified earlier in this unit if possible.

Ø  Information such as names, license numbers, registration numbers, location, time, road and weather conditions, insurance information, and witnesses, should be obtained and accurately written down.

Ø  If possible, a transportation staff member should be at the scene to render assistance and take pictures.

Documents - If involved in an accident, the investigating officer may ask the driver to provide:

 The appropriate driver's license

 DOT medical card 

 Proof of insurance 

 Vehicle registration

 Pre-trip documentation

 Current CDE Affidavit of Annual Inspection

Emergency Packet – Your District may require additional information. 

 Seating Charts (2) 

 Exchange of Information Form 

 Witness Information Form 

When you come upon an accident, use caution and continue moving. Staying too long at an accident can lead to another accident, and puts the drivers behind you at risk. 

• Remain alert and briefly size up the accident scene. 

• Resist the urge to rubberneck.

• Begin braking early to warn other drivers to slow down, but do not stop completely. 

Be prepared in case you are involved in an accident or are stopped by law enforcement. Always carry your Driver’s License, DOT Medical Card, and the Vehicle Insurance and Registration.