When bus accidents occur, they typically lead to catastrophic results, especially when a bus strikes a pedestrian. Fortunately, tragedy was avoided in Des Moines Thursday morning when a pedestrian hit by a bus survived, but sustained serious injuries to her legs. Additional investigation revealed that the driver of the bus has a long history of criminal and traffic violations.
According to the Des Moines Register:
“A transit official said Friday that Robert Delpierre’s background would have eliminated him from consideration under hiring rules that were tightened after he joined the 165-driver staff.
Officials said they were fully aware, for example, that he was released from prison on methamphetamine charges in 2006.
Delpierre, who was ticketed for Thursday’s accident that left a 54-year-old woman with serious leg injuries, had only one blemish on his driving record since he was hired in 2007, a bus official said.
He passed a drug test after Thursday’s accident. All employees are subject to random drug tests.
Miller said job applicants can have no substance abuse violations within five years, or moving traffic violations within three years, of being hired.
Under federal guidelines, drivers, still get a second chance if they fail a drug test, Miller said, but bus commissioners will discuss a “no-tolerance policy.”Delpierre, 52, could not be reached for comment Friday.
Delpierre was convicted in the 1990s of methamphetamine possession, first-degree theft and various other crimes in other counties. He served 15 months of a five-year prison term.”
Regardless of whether the driver met the hiring standards at the time, this could constitute a serious problem for the bus company given the driver’s past and what occurred last week. If you or someone you love has been injured in a bus accident, contact the attorneys at the Phillips National Injury Group today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Sun, Jul 12, 2009
Bus Accidents