The National Road Safety Council (NRSC) is amplifying its call for motor vehicle owners to ensure that their vehicles are operating optimally, especially when transporting children.

The NRSC’s renewed appeal follows yesterday’s crash involving over 20 students from the Louise Bennett-Coverley and the St. Martin de Porres Primary Schools in St. Andrew.

Reports are that some time after 3 PM, the students were travelling in a Hiace minibus in Dublin Castle, Gordon Town, when the driver allegedly encountered mechanical issues.

The bus crashed and overturned.

The students were rushed to the University Hospital of the West Indies, where the majority of them were treated and released.

Up to late last night, two of the students remained hospitalized in critical but stable condition.

Reacting to the matter, NRSC Vice-Chairman, Dr. Lucien Jones, said the situation is another reminder that motorists, especially those who transport the nation’s youth, must comply with every aspect of the road safety regulations.

This, he stressed, includes ensuring that motor vehicles are well-maintained and in proper working condition.