BASTROP COUNTY, Texas – New revelations emerge about the concrete truck driver involved in a tragic school bus collision, shedding light on his prohibited driving status and substance use prior to the incident.

Driving History Unveiled

Jerry Hernandez, the driver charged with criminally negligent homicide for the March 22 crash, was not authorized to operate a commercial vehicle at the time of the accident. Documents reveal that he had a history of drug use and inadequate rest before the fatal collision, which claimed the lives of five-year-old Ulises Rodriguez Montoya and 33-year-old Ryan Wallace.

According to an arrest affidavit, Hernandez confessed to using marijuana and cocaine before the crash, having only slept three hours and taken a brief nap in his truck. His admission of falling asleep during the interview underscores the alarming circumstances preceding the tragedy.

Arrest and Charges

Texas DPS confirmed Hernandez’s arrest and charging in connection with the collision. Despite his refusal to provide a blood sample and his claim of sudden braking by a preceding vehicle, evidence contradicts his account, as witness statements and video footage indicate.

Moreover, information from the federal Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse indicated that Hernandez should have been prohibited from performing safety-sensitive functions since 2020, highlighting systemic failures in oversight.

Legal Ramifications and Employer Obligations

The release of dashcam footage from the incident prompted legal analysis, with experts emphasizing the importance of interstate communication and employer diligence in verifying driver qualifications and drug histories.

Drew Gibbs, a personal injury attorney, highlighted the regulatory framework governing employer responsibilities in maintaining driver qualification files and ongoing monitoring.

Federal Intervention

In response to Hernandez’s status as an imminent hazard to public safety, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ordered him to cease operating any commercial motor vehicle. Efforts are underway to collaborate with Texas authorities to revoke his commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Despite attempts to reach FJM Concrete, Hernandez’s employer, no response has been received, leaving unanswered questions regarding their adherence to regulatory standards.

Conclusion: Ensuring Road Safety

The tragic collision underscores the critical need for robust oversight and compliance measures within the commercial driving industry. Addressing lapses in monitoring and enforcement is essential to preventing similar incidents and safeguarding public safety on the roads. Download The Local News App to stay informed about developments in this ongoing investigation.

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