A veteran Brisbane bus driver has been praised for his bravery and quick actions to help a trapped motorist after her car crossed a median strip and launched into the side of the bus he was driving.
The bus was out of service and stopped at a red light at the intersection of Beaudesert and Granard roads in Rocklea when the incident, which was caught on CCTV, happened.
A blue Toyota Yaris was catapulted into the air after it swerved to avoid another vehicle and hit the median island, wedging into the side of the stationary Brisbane City Council bus.
Queensland Police have reportedly fined the driver of the other vehicle, a black SsangYong, for driving without due care and attention.
The bus was travelling on the UQ Lakes to Calamvale 139 route and on its way back to the Sherwood Bus Depot and was empty except for the driver and his wife.
The bus driver and his wife did not sustain any injuries, and the driver of the Yaris was reportedly taken to hospital and treated for shock after being helped from her vehicle by the bus driver.
“I’ve seen the footage and I still can’t believe everyone walked away,” said Brisbane City Council Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner.
“Seeing a car wedged into the side of a bus is something you’d expect in a movie, not on the streets of Brisbane.
“The real story isn’t just the crash, it’s what our driver did next.
“The footage shows the bus driver ran towards danger to help a complete stranger.
“I am incredibly proud we have people like him driving our buses, helping to keep Brisbane moving.”
The driver has driven Brisbane buses for more than seven years, receiving many public commendations over his years of service.
