Commentary from Premiere Transportation President David Brown on Buffalo Bus Accident

Statement from David:

On behalf of Premiere Transportation and as a board member of the Bus Association of New York, I want to extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and communities impacted by the tragic bus accident near Buffalo on August 22. No words can lessen the sorrow of such a loss, and our thoughts are with everyone grieving during this difficult time.

In moments like this, it is natural for the public to feel apprehensive about motorcoach travel. Safety is always the top priority in our industry, and I want to reassure riders that New York’s professional operators follow some of the strictest standards in the nation. Every licensed bus company is held to rigorous compliance measures designed to protect passengers, drivers, and the traveling public.

These include:

• Comprehensive background checks for all drivers, ensuring only qualified, responsible professionals are behind the wheel.
• Strict limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue and ensure drivers remain alert and capable throughout their routes.
• Mandatory drug and alcohol testing as part of ongoing monitoring for safety-sensitive positions.
• Frequent, thorough vehicle inspections and preventative maintenance programs to identify and address any issues before a vehicle leaves the lot.

At Premiere Transportation, and across the companies represented by the Bus Association of New York, these protocols are not just regulations—we view them as commitments to our passengers, our employees, and our communities.

While accidents are heartbreaking, they are also extremely rare. Motorcoach travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation in the United States, thanks to ongoing investment in technology, training, and oversight. As an industry, we will continue working tirelessly to raise the bar even higher.

To the public, I want to offer reassurance: your safety is—and always will be—the foundation of our work.

David Brown
Owner, Premiere Transportation (Albany & Syracuse)
Board Member, Bus Association of New York