Accident Prompts Call for Higher Safety Standards on Private School Transportation
Dr. Regina Saenz, a mother of a 15-year-old boy, is pushing for higher safety standards on private school transportation after her son was involved in an accident that could have been prevented. Her son, Nicholas, was hit by a van while crossing the street in Coral Gables, just before spring break.
Investigation and Aftermath
According to investigators, the van crossed a double-yellow line to pass the bus, hitting Nicholas. Dr. Saenz, a surgeon, initially didn’t want to watch the security camera footage but was relieved to find that her son survived with only minor injuries, including a dislocated ankle.
Nicholas credits his luck, saying that if he had been a second earlier or later, he might not be alive today. Dr. Saenz added that this could have been prevented if the school had followed standard protocol.
Florida Legislation and County Regulation
In Florida, stop signs are required for public school buses, but not for private school vans. However, the state gives counties the power to add this requirement for private transportation. Miami-Dade County’s Department of Transportation stated that private school vans are only required to have a "Caution Transporting Children" sign.
Ivan Cotayo, a representative from the department, acknowledged that a bright red sign with flashing lights would get attention. The department is willing to pursue adding stop signs for private school vans.
Legislative Support
Florida State Sen. Ileana Garcia has expressed support for stricter safety standards, stating that the safety of children is non-negotiable. She plans to address the issue in the upcoming legislative session.
Consequences and Next Steps
Nicholas no longer takes the bus and is focusing on healing, while his mother is determined to make sure this doesn’t happen to someone else’s child. Dr. Saenz believes that every child should have the same type of protection, whether private or public, and is committed to turning her pain into purpose.
FAQs
Q: Are stop signs required for public school buses in Florida?
A: Yes.
Q: Are stop signs required for private school vans in Florida?
A: No, but the state gives counties the power to add this requirement.
Q: What is the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation’s stance on adding stop signs for private school vans?
A: They are willing to pursue adding stop signs for private school vans.
Q: What is the Florida State Department of Transportation’s stance on stricter safety standards for private school transportation?
A: They are in favor of stricter safety standards.
