Iowa Girl's Tragic Death Results in Bus Safety Legislation

On May 10, 2011, 7-year-old Kadyn Halverson, of Kensett, IA., was hit and killed while crossing the street to her school bus.

The driver never stopped, even though the school bus had its stop sign out and lights flashing. Law enforcement caught the driver and he was later convicted of vehicular homicide, reckless driving and leaving the scene of a personal injury accident.

Since the accident, Kadyn’s family has worked tirelessly to protect other children and families from any similar accidents. 

Legislation was drafted with input from the Department of Transportation, the Department of Public Safety, Kadyn’s family and other groups involved in school bus safety. The final version of the bill is one that will have a lasting impact and protect children on their way to and from school.

New penalties

The bill enhances the penalties for a violation of school bus safety laws. A school bus driver who does not operate the bus under current code is guilty of a simple misdemeanor, punishable as a scheduled violation, with a fine of $100.

Drivers who violate the law by failing to slow when passing a bus with flashing lights, or failing to stop when a school bus stop sign is deployed can be charged with a simple misdemeanor.

A person who is a second or subsequent offender can be charged with a serious misdemeanor. Penalties are also increased for those who hit and injure or kill someone, while illegally passing a bus.

In addition to increased penalties, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Education and the Department of Public Safety will study the use of cameras mounted on school busses, the feasibility of requiring children to be picked up and dropped off on the side of the road where their home is located and the possibility of including school bus safety as a priority in drivers training.

The bill passed both the House and Senate unanimously and will be signed by the governor in a public ceremony.  

Kadyn’s tragic death has now resulted in legislation that may save the lives of others. 

Her death is also a reminder to all of us to pay attention to the laws of the road and remember there may be nothing more important in the life of a child than our ability to stop for their school bus.

Talk to Your Elected Officials

The Urbandale Chamber of Commerce partners with Senator Brad Zaun and me, along with officials representing the city, county and Urbandale schools, to offer several opportunities for public input. This year we have two public forums left at the Chamber Office at 2900 Justin Drive, Suite L. Please join us on:

Saturday, March 31 - 10:30 am to noon
Saturday, April 28 - 10:30 am to noon.