Billings Public Schools confirmed that three students were injured in a school bus accident on the city’s West End Thursday afternoon. The district reported that the crash happened around 2 p.m. near the intersection of Shiloh Road and Neibauer Road. Officials said an alleged tire blowout caused the bus to leave the roadway, traveling nearly 40 feet before coming to rest against a tree. One student was transported to the hospital for treatment, while another was taken as a precautionary measure. The other injured student was treated on scene.
When a school bus carrying children is involved in a crash caused by equipment failure, investigators must look beyond maintenance alone. It will also be important to figure out whether the tire failure was linked to a potential product defect.
Could a Defective Tire Have Caused the Crash?
Tire blowouts on large vehicles like school buses can sometimes stem from design flaws or manufacturing defects. A defect in the tread, sidewall, or bonding materials could result in a sudden failure even if the tire was relatively new and appeared in good condition. Investigators will need to identify the brand and model of the tire and determine whether it has been the subject of recalls or prior lawsuits. If a product defect is confirmed, responsibility may extend beyond the school district or bus contractor to the tire manufacturer.
Was Maintenance an Overlooked Issue?
Even in the absence of a defect, routine inspections and maintenance play a crucial role in keeping school buses safe. Investigators should examine maintenance records to see if the tire had shown signs of wear, age, or underinflation before the incident. They will also want to determine if the blowout could have been prevented through earlier replacement or better upkeep.
What Evidence Will Be Critical?
The failed tire itself is the most important piece of evidence and will need to be inspected by experts for signs of tread separation, punctures, or adhesion failure. Maintenance logs and inspection reports from the school district or bus contractor will help establish whether the bus was serviced according to regulations. Scene evidence, such as skid marks or gouges in the roadway, may help confirm how the blowout caused the bus to lose control.
Why the Investigation Matters
School bus crashes are especially serious because of the vulnerability of passengers. In this case, three students were injured, so a thorough investigation into whether the blowout was due to a product defect, poor maintenance, or both will be essential for accountability. Those answers will help ensure that families understand what happened and why.