Salina, KS (January 28, 2025) – On the afternoon of January 28, 2025, a crash involving two vehicles occurred on U81 northbound, approximately 0.2 miles north of I-70 in Saline County. The accident, reported at 3:55 p.m., resulted in injuries to several individuals, including one with suspected serious injuries. Authorities responded to the scene, and the accident is under investigation by local law enforcement.
In the crash, a 2024 Buick Encore driven by 83-year-old Marvin Leroy Steenbock, merged onto U81 from westbound I-70. As he attempted to turn left, the Buick collided with , a 2017 Blue Bird school bus carrying 23 passengers. The impact caused the Buick to come to rest across the center median and left shoulder of the road. The bus struck a guardrail and also ended up in the center median. Emergency responders transported several individuals, including the driver of the Buick and three bus passengers, to Salina Regional Hospital. The conditions of the victims have been reported as suspected serious and minor injuries.
At this time, the details of the crash remain under investigation, and local law enforcement is working to determine the exact cause of the incident. The scene was temporarily cleared for emergency crews to assist and to assess the damage to the vehicles. No further updates have been provided regarding the specific conditions of the injured individuals.
Our thoughts are with the victims of this crash and their families. We hope for their full recovery and that they find comfort during this difficult time.
Distracted and Unsafe Driving in Kansas
The crash in Saline County highlights the importance of safe driving practices, particularly when merging onto highways and ensuring there is enough time to assess the safety of other vehicles. While the investigation continues, accidents involving vehicles turning in front of others are a reminder of how quickly collisions can occur when drivers fail to properly gauge the safety of their maneuvers.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), unsafe driving behaviors, including failure to yield and distracted driving, contribute to a significant portion of road accidents. Over the past decade, studies show that these preventable causes are responsible for a large number of both minor and severe crashes in the United States. These types of accidents continue to pose a major risk to road safety, especially when large vehicles like buses are involved.
What to Do After an Accident
If you or a loved one have been involved in a crash, it is important to take the right steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Consulting with an experienced attorney can provide you with valuable guidance on navigating the aftermath of a crash. At Bretz Injury Law, we are committed to helping individuals recover from accidents like the one in Saline County. If you’ve been injured in a crash, don’t wait to seek professional legal assistance. Call us at 620-524-0080 for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice and compensation you are owed.
