Bus driver sues estate of woman over fatal 2011 crash

CHARLESTON - A bus driver is suing the Kanawha County Sheriff's Office after he claims he was injured by a woman who caused a collision with the bus he was driving.

The Kanawha County Sheriff's Office is the administratrix of the Estate of Laura Marcum.

On April 8, 2011, Randy E. Hanshaw was operating a KRT bus on Elk River Road when Marcum, who was operating a 2008 Toyota Highlander in a careless and reckless manner, crossed the center line and collided with the bus, according to a complaint filed April 2 in Kanawha Circuit Court.

Hanshaw claims Marcum failed to maintain control of her vehicle and caused the vehicle to violently collide with his vehicle.

As a result of Marcum's negligence and carelessness, Hanshaw was injured in and about his hand, neck, back, shoulders and knees; has incurred medical expenses; has endured pain and suffering; has sustained an impairment of the capacity to enjoy life; and suffered annoyance, aggravation and mental anguish, according to the suit.

Marcum was 45 at the time of the accident. There were two passengers on the bus, according to an April 2011 report in the Charleston Daily Mail.

The report adds that Marcum's SUV flipped onto its side, while the KRT bus went off the road and up an embankment. Marcum was pronounced dead at the scene.

Hanshaw is seeking compensatory damages with pre- and post-judgment interest. He is being represented by William M. Tiano of Tiano O'Dell PLLC.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Charles E. King.

Kanawha Circuit Court case number: 13-C-620