A full-sized Parkland School Bus with 16 elementary students on board was rear-ended by a 2005 Nissan Altima driven by an 18-year-old male from Breinigsville, 3:52 p.m. March 8, in the area of 7533 Hamilton Blvd., Upper Macungie Township.

According to police, the school bus, a 2007 International Harvester CE200, was driven by Aaron T. Beaver, 48, of Orefield.

Police say the front of the bus was just past the intersection at Trexler Circle, when the driver of the Nissan traveling directly behind the bus eastbound on Hamilton Boulevard, was momentarily distracted by a passing vehicle.

The teen driver reportedly told police he did not see the bus slow down and did not come to a complete stop, until it was too late, police say.

Police say the teen was unable to slow down or stop in time before striking the rear of the bus.

Beaver told police he had activated his bus’ yellow lights in anticipation of a stop across from the Hamilton Boulevard address and his bus was very close to coming to a complete stop when it was struck from behind by the car.

The Parkland School District issued the following statement on March 9.

“A Parkland School Bus was hit from behind by a motorist in a car on Wednesday, March 8 as it was transporting students home from school.

“No injuries were reported, but the bus sustained some minor damage.

“A Parkland administrator immediately went to the scene of the accident and rode to the children’s bus stops with the bus driver to meet and explain what had occurred with parents.”

According to police, both drivers were wearing their seat belts.

The car sustained severe disabling damage to its front bumper and hood.

The school bus sustained moderate damage to its rear bumper and underbody.

The bus was equipped with cameras and its video footage was reviewed by Upper Macungie Police Officer Robert Djevharian.

Police say after the video was reviewed, the teen was charged with careless driving.