Father of student sues over school bus crash

GRETNA – The father of a student who was allegedly injured in a bus accident is suing the school system.

Luis D. Peguero, on behalf of his minor daughter, filed suit against Jefferson Parish School Board, Jefferson Parish Public School System, ACE American Insurance Company and Javon Mason in the 24th Judicial District Court on May 13.

Peguero alleges his daughter was a passenger on a school bus owned by the Jefferson Parish School Board when it sideswiped a car driving in an adjacent lane. The plaintiff asserts that his daughter received injuries in the accident including back strain and a bruised shoulder.

The defendant is accused of failing to keep a proper lookout, careless operation of a motor vehicle, inattentiveness, failing to see what should have been seen, failing to timely and adequately apply the brakes to stop it before colliding with the vehicle in front of it, operating a school bus too close to the vehicle in front of it, improper passing and failing to provide room to avoid the accident.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for pain and discomfort, mental anguish, pain and suffering and inconvenience.

Peguero is represented by Paula J. Rodriguez of the Kenner-based Law Office of Miguel A. Elias.

The case has been assigned to Division N Judge Stephen D. Enright Jr.

Case no. 738-399.