On this day, May 14, 1988, the deadliest incident involving drunk driving in U.S. history occurred.

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3. According to this piece, the NTSB report agrees with you about the bus design:

https://mezrano.com/tragedy-revisited-reflecting-on-the-carrollton-bus-collision-aftermath/

The NTSB Report
The NTSB report concluded that the bus’s design contributed to the fatalities, prompting calls for stricter safety standards. The report found that the unprotected fuel tank, flammable seat covers, and partially obstructed rear exit were among the design flaws that exacerbated the tragedy.


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Legislative Legacy
The Carrollton bus collision instigated major legislative changes both in Kentucky and nationwide. In response to the tragedy, lawmakers implemented stricter bus safety regulations and drunk driving laws, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Kentucky’s Response
In response to the tragedy, Kentucky implemented stricter bus safety regulations, such as protected gas tank, non-flammable bus seat material, and an increased number of emergency exits. These changes aimed to address the design flaws identified in the NTSB report and improve overall bus safety.

Kentucky also enacted harsher penalties for drunk driving, including mandatory ignition interlock systems for certain DUI offenders. These changes have been effective in reducing similar incidents and increasing overall traffic safety in the state.

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