Drunk Driver’s Crash Lands Bus on Train Tracks, Injuring Several
A 19-year-old is facing severe consequences after a collision in Karlovy Vary involving a bus. The incident resulted in injuries and significant damage. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, which also affected railway operations.
The Incident Unfolds
On September 19, 2024, around 6:00 AM, the accident occurred at the intersection of Warsaw and Western streets. A Volkswagen driven by a 19-year-old crashed into a bus. The vehicle then hit a sidewalk and breached a railing, coming to rest near the railway. Regional spokesman Jan Bílek reported the details of the event.
In Karlovy Vary, the rescue of the crashed bus began. Today, after a morning collision with a passenger car, he went to the track. Except for abrasions and bruises, nothing happened to anyone. Operation at a busy intersection and railway line is still closed @Radiozurnal1 pic.twitter.com/jh5jsm1RVg
– Dominik Hron (@dhr0n) September 19, 2024
The young driver, who lacked a valid license, reportedly drove through a red light. A breathalyzer test showed a reading of 0.83 per mille. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-impaired driving fatalities accounted for 31% of all traffic fatalities in 2022 (NHTSA).
Consequences and Aftermath
The damage from the accident is estimated at 900,000 crowns. Law enforcement has charged the 19-year-old with causing severe bodily harm due to negligence. If convicted, he faces a potential prison sentence of up to eight years. Emergency services treated 17 people at the scene.
“Several people were injured, according to Radek Hes‘ spokesman, it was mostly lighter injuries and fractures.”
—Radek Hes, Spokesman
Dušan Gavenda from the Railway Administration said that the railway yard was 15 meters long, causing a halt in train services between Karlovy Vary and Karlovy Vary – Dolní nádraží. Alternative transport was arranged for passengers. Clearing the site and restoring the railway took three days. Five fire crews were involved in the cleanup, reported regional firefighter spokesman Lukáš Černý.
The investigation into the circumstances continues, with the legal process now underway. The outcome will determine the extent of the consequences for the driver and the long-term implications of this serious incident.
