Mt. Vernon, IL (August 22, 2026) –An SUV and a small school bus were involved in a collision on Thursday afternoon, August 20, on Route 37 near Game Farm Road in the Bakersville area south of Mt. Vernon, leaving two drivers injured.
Illinois State Police said the crash involved the SUV and the Durham Bus Service vehicle. The bus was transporting special needs students from Mt. Vernon Township High School. Three students remained on board when the collision occurred, but none required hospital treatment. Their parents or guardians picked them up at the scene.
Jefferson Fire officials said the SUV appeared to cross the centerline and sideswipe the bus before leaving the roadway and coming to rest upright on the railroad right-of-way. The bus continued across the road before stopping. The names of the two drivers have not been released. The incident remains under review.
We extend our support and well wishes to those injured in the incident.
What Should Drivers Know About Crashes Involving School Buses?
School buses can carry multiple passengers, making safety around them especially important. Drivers should remain alert when approaching a bus and follow traffic laws governing stopped school buses and passenger loading areas.
Crossing the centerline can place a vehicle directly in the path of oncoming traffic. Even a sideswipe can cause a driver to lose control and leave the roadway, creating additional hazards.
Railroad areas can present another concern after a vehicle leaves the roadway. Stopping train traffic may be necessary when a vehicle comes to rest on or near railroad property. Drivers should stay within designated lanes and maintain control of their vehicles.
