On January 19, 2025, a tragic accident involving a school bus and an SUV occurred on State Route 32 in Brown County, Ohio, claiming the life of one driver and leaving two students with minor injuries. As a leading personal injury law firm in Ohio, Paulozzi LPA is committed to providing insight into such incidents, highlighting potential causes, offering preventative tips, and informing the public about legal options for accident victims.
This article explores the details of the accident, discusses its implications, and shares proactive steps to promote safety on Ohio’s roads.
The crash occurred at approximately 7:38 PM near Sardinia Mowrystown Road in Washington Township. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Shawn Wisby, a 47-year-old Georgetown resident, was driving a Mazda CX-5 eastbound on SR-32 when he veered off the left side of the roadway, crossed the median, and collided head-on with a school bus traveling westbound. Tragically, Wisby was pronounced dead at the scene, and authorities confirmed he was not wearing a seatbelt.
The school bus, carrying 12 passengers, was transporting students from the Western Brown School District. Two students sustained minor injuries and were treated at Mt. Orab Mercy Hospital. The bus driver, who was wearing a seatbelt, did not suffer injuries.
This tragic incident underscores several risks and contributing factors often associated with roadway accidents:
Seatbelts are one of the most effective safety measures for preventing fatalities in motor vehicle accidents. In this case, the lack of seatbelt use by the driver, Shawn Wisby, may have contributed significantly to the severity of his injuries. While Ohio law mandates seatbelt use in passenger vehicles, it’s worth noting that seatbelt requirements for school buses vary. Most large school buses are not required to have seatbelts due to their design, which incorporates high-backed, padded seats that create a protective compartmentalization system. However, smaller school buses are required by law to include seatbelts, underscoring the need for consistent safety measures across all vehicle types.
Early reports suggest that Wisby lost control of his vehicle, potentially due to driver distractions or other behavioral factors. Common distractions include texting or using a phone, eating or drinking, adjusting the radio or navigation system, and interacting with passengers. Fatigue and impaired driving are also frequent contributors to such incidents, reducing reaction times and impairing judgment. Addressing these behaviors through public awareness and enforcement of traffic laws is critical for improving roadway safety.
The design of SR-32, with its median separating opposing lanes of traffic, presents potential hazards when vehicles lose control. Medians without physical barriers can increase the risk of crossover collisions, particularly at higher speeds. Factors such as poor lighting, adverse weather conditions, and inadequate signage can exacerbate the risks. Improvements to roadway design, such as adding guardrails or improving visibility, could mitigate similar accidents in the future.
School buses are among the safest modes of transportation, thanks to their robust design and stringent operational regulations. However, this incident highlights the ongoing need for proper training for bus drivers and adherence to safety protocols. While many school buses do not currently require seatbelts, equipping buses with seatbelts and ensuring their consistent use could further enhance passenger safety. Ohio has begun exploring pilot programs to install seatbelts in school buses, but widespread implementation remains limited. This underscores the importance of advancing safety technologies and policies to protect student passengers effectively.
To minimize the likelihood of similar accidents, consider the following safety recommendations:
At Paulozzi LPA, we understand the devastating impact accidents like this have on families and communities. As experienced personal injury attorneys, we are committed to helping victims and their loved ones secure the justice and compensation they deserve. We offer free consultations to evaluate your situation, review evidence, and provide guidance on your legal options. With our contingency fee structure, you don’t pay unless we win your case, ensuring legal representation is accessible to everyone. From filing claims to negotiating settlements and representing clients in court, our team provides comprehensive legal support to help you through every step of the process.
The Brown County bus accident highlights the critical need for road safety, from driver education to improved infrastructure and accountability. By understanding the causes and risks associated with such incidents, we can work together to create safer roads and protect our communities. At Paulozzi LPA, we are dedicated to providing compassionate support and expert legal guidance for those impacted by accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact us. We offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and options, and we are committed to advocating for justice and accountability.
Together, we can strive for safer roads and a stronger, more secure community. Reach out to Paulozzi LPA today to take the first step toward recovery.