![[05-27-2025] Four Students Hospitalized After School Bus Crash Near Maple Elementary in Shafter](https://ak1.to//YNCe^.webp)
Four students were transported to the hospital after a school bus carrying 18 people was struck by a pickup truck near Maple Elementary School in Shafter on Tuesday afternoon, May 27, 2025.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 1:17 p.m. at the intersection of Wasco Avenue and West Tulare Avenue.
Authorities said the driver of an orange pickup truck was traveling westbound on Tulare Avenue at approximately 30 mph when they failed to stop at a posted stop sign.
The truck collided with the left side of a school bus that was heading southbound on Wasco Avenue. The impact caused both vehicles to veer off the road and come to rest in nearby orchards.
The Kern County Fire Department confirmed that the bus was transporting 18 occupants. Four individuals on board were taken to the hospital for further evaluation. Both the pickup truck driver and the school bus driver sustained minor injuries. CHP also noted that several students reported pain, though no visible injuries were observed.
A second school bus was dispatched to transport the remaining students back to campus, where they were reunited with their parents.
The crash remains under investigation.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
