Mar 13 • 22:54 UTC 🇨🇦 Canada Global News

School bus driver sentenced to 60 days jail for fatally striking pedestrian

A school bus driver was sentenced to 60 days in jail for the careless driving death of a pedestrian in a crosswalk.

Anthony Phillips, a 61-year-old school bus driver, has been sentenced to 60 days in jail after pleading guilty to careless driving causing the death of 22-year-old Rachel Turner in October 2024. The incident occurred when Phillips, while driving eastbound on Kingston Road, struck Turner as she was crossing in a marked pedestrian crosswalk. This tragic accident highlights the serious consequences of careless driving, especially in areas where pedestrians are present.

The court proceedings indicated that on October 8, 2024, Phillips slowed his bus in the passing lane to turn left but proceeded to turn without ensuring the crosswalk was clear. This negligence led to the unfortunate death of Turner, which underlines the importance of driver attentiveness at intersections, particularly when pedestrians are involved. The maximum penalty for careless driving causing death can be up to two years in jail, illustrating the legal system's recognition of the gravity of such cases.

In addition to the jail time, Phillips will also face a two-year suspension of his driving license. This ruling is significant as it sends a message to all drivers about the importance of road safety and pedestrian rights. With the increasing number of vehicles on the road, incidents like this one can serve as a grave reminder of the need for heightened awareness and caution among drivers to protect vulnerable road users like pedestrians.

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