Bus Driver’S Deeds Under Investigation

Wed., Aug. 18, 1999

By Heather Lalley heatherl@spokesman.com

A Greyhound bus driver, who nearly drove 50 passengers off a mountain road in Mullan on Monday, has been suspended without pay while the company investigates.

Gerald L. Silverman, 56, of Woodinville, Wash., was cited for inattentive driving after missing an exit and taking his bus up a dirt road early Monday, police said. The rear of the bus slid off the mountain as Silverman tried to pass a Jeep on the side of the road.

Silverman could not be reached for comment Tuesday.

“Until the investigation is complete, the driver is considered out of service. He is not working,” said Greyhound spokeswoman Katherine Williams.

Police said Silverman is taking medication for high blood pressure and diabetes, and several witnesses said he seemed drowsy and disoriented.

Under federal law, drivers cannot operate a bus if they are diabetic and dependent on insulin.

Williams would not comment on Silverman’s medical condition.

Silverman’s supervisor at Greyhound in Seattle called him a “good operator,” and police said he had a near-perfect driving record, receiving one speeding ticket several years ago.

Passengers helped each other through the teetering bus’ windows and emergency exits. No one was injured and all were taken to their destinations, Williams said.

The Greyhound investigation is expected to be completed by the end of the week, she said.

IDAHO HEADLINE: Greyhound suspends driver

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