School bus driver charged in accident

State troopers cited a Terrebonne Parish school bus driver for careless operation when her bus collided into the back of a 2000 Chevrolet Impala on Monday.

According to Troop C Public Information Officer Rodney Hyatt, Stephanie Lewis, 45, of Houma, was transporting middle school students from school to home. Hyatt said at approximately 3:30 p.m., Lewis ran into the back of the Impala near Darlene Street on La. 24. The Chevrolet was being driven by Lee Edwards, 19, of Houma.

Hyatt said Edwards was stopped because a vehicle in front of him was making a right turn.

The school bus was carrying 15 students, ranging in age from 8- to 15 years old. Only one student received minor injuries, Hyatt said, and did not require medical attention.

Neither Lewis nor Edwards were hurt in the crash; both drivers were wearing their safety belts, Hyatt said, noting drug or alcohol impairment is not suspected in the crash.

Lewis was cited for careless operation, which carries a $360 fine.

According to the Terrebonne Parish District Attorney’s Office, Lewis will be liable for the accident, not the Terrebonne Parish School Board.

Hyatt said careless operation is one of the highest cited traffic offenses in the country.