Fatal Accident Circumstances and Epidemiology (FACE) Report: School Bus DriverCrushed While Preparing to Install Tire Chains on Minibus, Alaska, November 6, 1992

摘要

The case of a 54 year old school bus driver who was crushed while installing tirechains was reviewed. The driver was transporting developmentally disabled children in a minibus. The road was covered with snow, with a glaze of ice and rain. While attempting to drive up a long, steep hill (up to 11.8% grade), he experienced difficulty controlling the minibus. He stopped the vehicle, put it in park, and engaged the emergency brake. As he was trying to put the tire chains on, the bus began to slide and trapped him under the rear bumper. The bus then turned 90 degrees and slid down the road into an embankment, trapping the driver between the bumper and the embankment, crushing him. The driver died as a result of compression asphyxia. It is recommended that all drivers be adequately trained to operate safely under adverse weather conditions and be instructed on proper procedures for safely carrying out such tasks as installing tire chains. Studded tires should be used in the winter months. Drivers should be made more aware of their rights to cancel certain routes if weather makes them hazardous for travel.