A driver from Quebec is facing serious charges after a child was struck by a vehicle while getting off a school bus this week in Eastern Ontario. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of school bus safety.
Details of the Deep River Incident
The collision occurred on Tuesday, November 25, 2024, at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Highway 17 near the town of Deep River, located north of Ottawa. According to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), a 10-year-old child had just exited a westbound school bus and was in the process of crossing the busy highway.
The school bus had its red flashing lights activated and its stop arm extended, signaling clearly for all traffic to halt. Despite this, an eastbound car, driven by a 29-year-old man from Dorval, Quebec, failed to stop and struck the child.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Renfrew County paramedics responded to the scene and transported the child to a local hospital for medical assessment. Fortunately, the injuries sustained were determined to be not serious.
The Quebec driver has been charged under the Highway Traffic Act with two offenses:
- Careless driving causing bodily harm
- Failing to stop for a school bus that has its red lights activated
The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court in Pembroke on December 15, 2024.
OPP's Urgent Safety Warning
In a social media release following the incident, the OPP emphasized the potential for tragedy in such situations. "Thankfully this child was not seriously hurt, but failing to stop for a stopped school bus can be deadly," the police statement read.
The OPP is using this event to reiterate its warning to all motorists to be extremely vigilant, especially in areas where children are present. Drivers must always be prepared to stop for school buses and watch for students who may be crossing the road.
