Driver Charged with DUI While Transporting Children
A Massachusetts school van driver, Rebecca Shing from Somerset, was arrested in New Bedford on Tuesday for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol with children on board. Authorities report that State Police pulled Shing over at around 2:30 p.m. after receiving a tip from a passerby who allegedly observed the van drifting in and out of traffic lanes on Route 140.
According to court records, the witness reported seeing the school van veer across both the meridian and breakdown lanes several times, raising concerns for the safety of the young passengers. By the time troopers arrived, the van had already pulled over, and Shing was standing outside the vehicle.
The statement of facts filed in court reveals that five individuals were inside the van: an 18-year-old student and four younger children. Shing was employed by H & L Bloom, a transportation service, but the company has yet to respond to requests for comment.
When officers interacted with Shing, they noted visible signs of intoxication. Police reported that her eyes were glassy and bloodshot, she had difficulty standing, and there was a “strong smell of alcohol on her breath.” When questioned, Shing allegedly informed officers that she had taken one and a half doses of Suboxone, a medication for opium addiction, earlier in the day.
State Troopers administered three different field sobriety tests, all of which Shing reportedly failed. She later submitted to a breathalyzer test that registered a blood alcohol content of 0.15—nearly double the legal limit of 0.08.
These results led to Shing being charged with negligent operation of a motor vehicle, violating marked lanes, and endangering children while under the influence of alcohol. Her legal team entered a not guilty plea on Wednesday. According to court records, Shing did not post bail and is currently held at the Bristol County House of Correction. Her lawyers have not yet commented on the case.
Potential Compensation for Victims and the Role of Legal Support
When children are placed at risk due to negligent behavior by those entrusted with their safety, the families involved have a right to seek compensation for any harm suffered. In cases like this, potential compensation may include coverage for emotional trauma, counseling services for the affected children, and any physical injuries that may have resulted from the incident. Additionally, families may seek damages for pain and suffering, as well as reimbursement for any medical bills if injuries were sustained.
At Dane Shulman Law Group, we understand the gravity of such situations and are dedicated to fighting for justice on behalf of our clients. We believe in holding negligent parties accountable, especially when the safety of children is at stake.
Our experienced attorneys work closely with families to evaluate the full impact of the incident and pursue the maximum compensation available under Massachusetts law. Our team will gather all necessary evidence, work with medical professionals, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that our clients’ needs are met, both now and in the future. If you or a loved one has been affected by a similar incident, we are here to offer guidance and a dedicated approach to securing justice.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Should you identify any inaccuracies, please notify Dane Shulman Attorneys for corrections. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
Source: Boston News
