New Castle, DE (September 17, 2024) – A bus-tractor crash occurred on Monday morning, September 16, involving a school bus and a tractor, resulting in the death of one individual. The incident took place at approximately 8:18 a.m. on S Dupont Highway, just south of Federal School Lane.
According to the Delaware State Police, a Blue Bird school bus was traveling in the left lane of the northbound highway when a John Deere tractor, which was on the right shoulder, attempted to cross into the northbound lanes. Preliminary investigations indicate that the tractor entered the path of the bus while making a left turn from the shoulder towards a crossover. The school bus subsequently struck the tractor, causing the operator to be ejected from the vehicle.
The operator of the tractor, an 85-year-old man from New Castle, was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His identity has not been released pending notification of his family.
The driver of the school bus, a 55-year-old woman from New Castle, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment. Additionally, a 56-year-old female passenger on the bus was also transported to the hospital for injury treatment and further examination. Although the school bus was carrying seven students from George Read Middle School, all of whom were seatbelted and reported to be unharmed.
Emergency responders, including local firefighters, worked quickly to extract the vehicles and ensure the safety of all individuals involved. The roadway was closed for approximately three hours as authorities conducted their investigation and cleared the scene, effectively managing traffic flow during the incident. Local law enforcement authorities are investigating the circumstances leading to the wreck.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased victim. We also hope all the injured individuals make a swift recovery.
The Increase of Fatal Tractor Accidents in New Castle
Fatal tractor accidents, particularly involving larger vehicles such as school buses, have become an alarming trend in New Castle and across the nation. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were over 4,000 fatalities in crashes involving large trucks and other heavy vehicles in 2021 alone. This figure highlights the need for improved safety measures and awareness on the road.
In Delaware, the frequency of such accidents is concerning, especially in areas where agricultural machinery frequently interacts with motor vehicles. The consequences of these tragic incidents can be devastating, affecting families and communities. In New Castle County, the rate of tractor-related accidents has been steadily rising, prompting local authorities to implement safety campaigns aimed at educating drivers about sharing the road with agricultural equipment. Increased vigilance, adherence to traffic laws, and ongoing public safety initiatives are essential to reducing these incidents.
When such accidents lead to loss of life, families may face the difficult process of navigating a wrongful death claim. Typically, the deceased’s immediate family members, such as spouses, children, or parents, have the legal standing to file a wrongful death claim. In some cases, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate may also pursue a claim on behalf of the beneficiaries.
Survivors may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including funeral expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship. Each case is unique, making it crucial to consult with a qualified attorney to understand the potential for recovery.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal area tractor accident, a knowledgeable New Castle wrongful death attorney from Murphy & Landon is prepared to help. With an unwavering dedication to client advocacy and a proven track record of success, Murphy & Landon offers quality legal guidance and representation to grieving families who have lost a loved one due to another motorist’s negligence.
To speak with our trained and compassionate legal team about your loved one’s tragic and fatal New Castle tractor accident, call Murphy & Landon at (302) 472-8112 to arrange a free-of-charge initial consultation. Our reputable legal team is prepared to guide you through the complex claims process and ensure that your rights and interests are vigorously defended.
Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Contact Murphy & Landon if you locate any inaccurate information. We will update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.
Disclaimer: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, get medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at this accident scene.
