A school bus driver was accused and consequently arrested for a DUI after he drove a school bus into a ditch with 10 school children between the ages of 10 and 16 on board. Fortunately, none of the children were harmed and each child was examined for injuries.
Unfortunately, the law regarding DUI’s classifies a DUI offence as a misdemeanor in Portland, Oregon. The driver was therefore released shortly after arrest pending a court hearing. The school has followed protocol and put the driver on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the court hearing. The Forest Grove School District said that appropriate actions would be taken once the court reached a decision.
The sheriff’s office said that while the driver appeared impaired after the accident, they did not suspect alcohol. However, they would not comment on the substance that was suspected and whether any blood tests had been conducted to confirm the DUI charge. Although most people associate a DUI charge with alcohol, any substance that impairs a driver’s ability in any way can also result in a DUI charge.
This includes controlled or illegal substances as well as prescription or over-the-counter medications. Driving under the influence of any substance that impairs driving skills is a crime and can result in a DUI charge and immediate arrest.
The bus driver could not be reached for comment and it is unclear whether he has retained a lawyer to defend the DUI charge. It is highly recommended to contact a lawyer immediately after being charged with a DUI or arrested especially where extenuating circumstances exist such as driving a school bus and therefore being responsible for the welfare and safety of minor passengers.
Although a DUI is classed as a misdemeanor, the police and courts do take the matter seriously and harsh penalties are likely to be delivered to the bus driver in question. So contact our lawyers for help today.
SOURCE: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/oregon-school-bus-driver-accused-dui-after-crashing-bus-10-n1081981
