An elementary school student on her way to school Tuesday morning was struck by a car as she tried to board her bus.
Monroe County sheriff's deputies said the bus did have its stop lights activated. Captain Paul DeLella reported Tuesday morning's snowy roads played into the accident.
"You have to know your driving and your capabilities," DeLella said.
The 10-year-old girl, a fourth grader in the Rush-Henrietta School District, complained of pain to her hip and elbow, but police said she is expected to be OK. She was taken to a hospital to be examined.
The driver tried to avoid the bus by veering to the right, but instead hit the girl.
Shannon Ronnenberg is a neighbor of the girl struck. It happened in front of her home.
"I really feel horrible for my neighbors and her daughter, who hopefully is going to be fine," Ronnenberg said. "But for the driver, she would never wish this upon herself. And I'm sure she would do anything in the world to slow down and take that back."
The driver was ticketed for speed unsafe for the conditions and for passing a bus.
Rush-Henrietta Central School District released this statement regarding the incident:
"This morning, a fourth-grader was hit by a car in Rush while waiting to board a school bus. The student was transported to the hospital for evaluation.
As the investigation into this morning's incident continues, let us share a general reminder about bus safety and the rules of the road. Following these rules could save a child's life.
An estimated 50,000 motor vehicles illegally pass New York school buses every day. It is illegal — and dangerous — to pass a stopped school bus when the large, red lights located on top of the bus are flashing. This is also true when the stop sign on the side of the bus has been activated. Flashing lights mean the bus is picking up or discharging students. Those operating a motor vehicle must stop for flashing red lights, even on divided and multi-lane highways, and on school grounds. Drivers must stop whether approaching the school bus from the front or overtaking it from behind. For example, if someone drives on Calkins Road, it does not matter what lane he or she is in when approaching a bus with yellow or red flashing lights. The driver must act accordingly by slowing down or stopping.
A first-time offense for illegally passing a school bus is a $250 to $400 fine, five points on the driver’s license, and/or 30 days in jail. Worse yet, the memory of hitting or killing a child is one that will be carried forever. Let’s do everything in our power to prevent this from happening.
Please remember:
- Yellow lights mean the bus is going to stop. This is the time to slow down.
- Red lights mean students are getting on or off the bus. This is the time to stop.
Thank you for your cooperation."