Protocol for the Examination of School Bus Vehicles to Support Accident Investigation and Reconstruction

This paper provides a protocol for the examination of school bus vehicles to support accident investigation and reconstruction. The topics covered are generally beyond what is normally conducted during a routine commercial motor coach accident investigation. Included are suggested points on administrative preparation, information research, logistics, examination equipment preparation, photography, and safety precautions. The examination protocol addresses inspection of the vehicle interior, under (front) hood, and exterior damage. Passenger compartment integrity and intrusion, occupant kinematic contact and evidentiary transfers, seating, and occupant restraint system components are addressed, along with evidentiary component recovery and packaging, for potential shipment to a laboratory.