This rim was the only thing saving passengers on a bus on the Old Harbour leg of Highway 2000, when a tire blew out. The driver has come in for commendation from the survivors for his calm driving under pressure. - Photo by Trevon Beharrie

CLARENDON:

It is not often that we praise the abilities of our nation's bus drivers. However, on Monday, many passengers found it a pleasant surprise to be able to do so.

While the fever of elections was the talking point of the nation, 20 passengers were thankful to still be alive.

At 7:08 a.m., a coaster, travelling at 140 kilometres per hour on the Old Harbour leg of Highway 2000 blew a tire.

It took approximately three minutes and much manoeuvering on the part of the driver to bring the vehicle to a stop.

So sure were some of the passengers of a crash that calls for God's help rang out during those three minutes.

The conductor fell flat on the ground bracing for an impact, while one lady, who was occupying the front seat above the tyre and was sleeping at the time, jumped into the lap of the person sitting beside her. Some passengers were left in a state of shock and one woman in particular, who has a heart condition, was in so much shock that she was seen soundlessly crying, while hugging her knees and trembling.

Tyre problem

According to the driver, the problem was caused when the tyre burst and the lock on the rim fell off. After walking some half a mile away he brought back the tyre as his evidence.

According to the driver, he hugged the steering wheel, remained calm and didn't press on the brakes. "If mi did ever press the brakes, people wudda dead," said the driver, who wished to remain anonymous.

- Trevon Beharrie