Youngsters survive minibus crash on M5 motorway

Five children taken to hospital after a minibus smash on a busy motorway were "incredibly lucky" to escape with minor injuries.

The youngsters, aged between six and 12, and three women were hurt in the crash on the southbound M5 near Droitwich, Worcestershire.

The minibus overturned on its side and was facing the wrong way on the hard shoulder, fire services said.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: "The eight occupants were incredibly lucky not to have been more seriously injured in the crash, considering the damage suffered by the vehicle and the fact that the crash happened near to a steep embankment.

"One boy was trapped in the minibus for a period. Ambulance crews worked with firefighters at the scene to extricate the boy, who had suffered an arm injury in the crash.

"Crews treated the boy at the scene and immobilised him with a neck collar and spinal board before he was taken by land ambulance on blue lights to Worcester Royal Hospital.

"A second boy had suffered a serious arm injury in the crash, a third boy was complaining of neck and back pain, one girl suffered a hand injury and a second girl was suffering from the effects of shock."

The motorway was closed to traffic at the crash scene, a mile south of Junction 5.

Three women - the driver and two passengers - suffered minor injuries in the crash and were also taken to Worcester Royal Hospital.

The minibus belonged to a school or community group and was a donation from the Variety Club Children's Charity, which presents around 100 new Sunshine Coaches every year enabling sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people to enjoy trips out.

Malcolm Brenner, chairman of the Variety Club Sunshine Coach Committee, said: "We are unsure of the details of the incident but our thoughts are with those involved in the accident and their families. We hope everyone is all right."

What can I do to help stop this happening to me and my passengers?

Many drivers will tell you that a minibus will react differently in an emergency situation from that of a car. Although you maybe driving from a higher and generally more safer driving position; the size, performance and heavier weight of some of the newer minibuses are more similar to that of a small coach than your own car.

A lucky escape cannot be guaranteed every time. Therefore, in an emergency situation you will need to know how to react differently and keep in control whilst driving your minibus, just like the professionals.  

Next Story: Fixed Penalties also for minibus drivers »»»»