New Drivers a Factor in Increased Manatee School Bus Accidents

Manatee, FL
Just two months into the academic calendar, Manatee County school buses have been involved in 11 accidents -- already half of the previous school year's total numbers, according to transportation officials.

Drivers have been at fault in five cases this year.

Twenty-three accidents were reported in all of 2011-12, and five bus drivers were charged. In 2010-11, two school employees were cited in 22 accidents.

Sheryl Riker, director of transportation for Manatee schools, has not had a chance to analyze all contributing factors, but said new drivers may explain the increase.

Safe Havens, International