Fatal School Bus Accident in Eure-et-Loir Prompts Drug Testing Reforms

A 15-year-old girl died and 20 students were injured after a bus crash, with the driver testing positive for cannabis use.

The accident occurred Thursday morning near Châteaudun, involving a school bus carrying 35 students; the vehicle overturned, killing one and injuring 20 others.
Toxicology tests confirmed the 26-year-old driver had consumed cannabis, with levels exceeding thresholds for passive exposure.
The driver, who claimed he swerved to avoid another vehicle, has been charged with aggravated involuntary homicide and remains under judicial supervision.
In response, Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot announced plans to increase drug testing for drivers, similar to existing alcohol testing protocols in public transport.
A psychological support team has been deployed to assist survivors and their families, while investigations continue to clarify the causes of the crash.