Waikato Police are urging motorists to familiarise themselves with the road rules after a narrow escape for an officer who slowed down when approaching a stationary school bus this morning.
District Road Policing Manager, Inspector Leo Tooman said the crash happened on SH3 about 8.30am, about a kilometre from the turnoff to the Waitomo Caves.
"Our northbound officer slowed down as he is required to when he noticed school children on his side of the road walking to meet a stationary school bus on the other side.
"As he slowed a car has come round a bend and failed to notice the bus and slow down and ended up driving into the back of the patrol car."
Mr Tooman said initial reports suggesting the school bus was caught up in the collision were incorrect.
"The bus was able to drive off and continue on its way with its young passengers unharmed.
"However the officer driving the patrol car is suffering from whiplash type injuries while a female passenger in the other vehicle suffered cuts and bruises. Neither injury was considered serious and both parties were treated at the scene by ambulance staff."
Mr Tooman said this morning's crash served as a timely reminder for motorists about the legal speed limit when approaching stationary school buses picking up or dropping of children.
"The legal requirement is for drivers to reduce their speed to 20km/h and of course drive to the conditions and be aware of your environment, that way should the driver in front of you reduce his speed you are able to as well.
"It's all about reducing the risk."
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