A teenage girl and a bus driver have been killed in a coach crash on the M53 motorway in Wirral, Merseyside. The coach, which was carrying pupils to school, overturned shortly after 8am on Friday.
Merseyside Police said the girl, who has been named as Jessica Baker, 15, died at the scene. The bus driver, Stephen Shrimpton, 59, was taken to hospital but died of his injuries.
A 14-year-old boy also suffered life-changing injuries in the crash, and 56 other people were injured. They were all taken to hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but police have said that it is not believed to have been caused by another vehicle.
Coach Crash Safety
Coach crashes are a relatively rare occurrence in the UK, but they can be devastating when they do happen. It is important to remember that coach travel is generally very safe, but there are a few things that you can do to reduce your risk of being involved in a coach crash:
- Only travel with reputable coach companies.
- Make sure that the coach is well-maintained and that the driver is qualified and experienced.
- Be aware of the risks of coach travel, such as fatigue and bad weather.
- Wear your seatbelt at all times.
- Follow the instructions of the driver.
Aftermath of the Coach Crash
The M53 was closed for several hours after the crash, and there were long delays for motorists. Police have thanked the public for their patience and understanding.
The school that Jessica Baker attended has paid tribute to her, describing her as a “bright and bubbly” student. The bus company has also issued a statement, expressing its condolences to the families of the victims and wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
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