A shocking incident that resulted in the loss of 10 lives and left 25 people injured has led to a driver appealing his 32-year jail sentence for his involvement in the deadly NSW wedding bus crash.
The Incident Unfolds
The vehicle, which was taking wedding guests to Singleton after a wedding at a wine estate, entered a roundabout on Wine Country Dr at an estimated 52km/h, before accelerating to about 56km/h, double the speed required to tip the bus over, which was only 31km/h.
Driver’s Impairment and Behavior
Brett Andrew Button, the 60-year-old driver, had been driving too fast and engaging in risk-taking behavior before the crash, and it was later found that he was impaired by an opioid at the time of the incident.
Sentencing and Appeal
Button was sentenced to a maximum jail term of 32 years with a non-parole period of 24 years in September, but has since filed a challenge to his sentence, which was briefly heard in the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal, with a hearing scheduled for October 3.
Evidence to be Presented
Prosecutors expect to present a substantial amount of evidence, including victim impact statements from the families of those who died or were injured in the crash, a psychological report for Button, and several references attesting to his good character.
Conviction and Charges
Button has pleaded guilty to 10 charges of dangerous driving causing death, nine counts of driving causing grievous bodily harm, and 16 counts of causing bodily harm by wanton driving, but will not be appealing against his conviction.
Previous Warnings
It was revealed that Button was told in 2022 that he was dependent on the opioid Tramadol and had taken more than the prescribed amount prior to the crash, highlighting concerns about his suitability to drive.
Separate Action Against the NSW Government
In a separate development, a class action has been filed by those injured and family members of the deceased against the NSW government, alleging failings in the design of the roundabout and that the speed limit through the interchange was too high.
Conclusion
The case is a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving and substance impairment, and the upcoming hearing will be closely watched as the appeal against the sentence is considered.