Tour Bus Crash on Interstate 89 Injures 23

Slick highway conditions blamed for 2008 accident involving Korean tourists

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car side mirror reflecting the faint glow of emergency lights, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a serious highway accident.The wreckage of a tour bus crash on Interstate 89 in Vermont serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of winter driving conditions.Burlington Today

On March 31, 2008, a tour bus carrying Korean tourists from Montreal to Boston slid off Interstate 89 in Vermont and rolled over in the median, injuring 23 people. First responders worked to free passengers from the overturned bus, and police said the driver was traveling too fast for the slick road conditions at the time of the accident.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of winter driving conditions on major highways and the importance of tour bus operators exercising proper caution, especially when transporting international travelers unfamiliar with local roads. The crash also prompted renewed calls for improved highway safety measures in the region.

The details

According to authorities, the tour bus was heading south on Interstate 89 near Burlington, Vermont when the driver lost control on the slick highway. The bus slid off the road and rolled over in the median, trapping many of the 40 Korean tourists inside. First responders worked quickly to free the passengers and transport the 23 injured individuals to local hospitals, though thankfully there were no fatalities.

  • The incident occurred on March 31, 2008.
  • The tour bus was traveling from Montreal to Boston when the crash took place.

The players

Interstate 89

A major north-south interstate highway in the northeastern United States, running from the Canadian border to Massachusetts.

Burlington, Vermont

The largest city in the U.S. state of Vermont, located on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're just grateful that no lives were lost, but this was a terrifying incident that could have been much worse.”

— Chief Michael Schirling, Burlington Police Department

What’s next

Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the crash and whether any charges will be filed against the bus driver. Highway safety officials in Vermont are also reviewing potential measures to improve road conditions and driver safety on Interstate 89 during winter weather events.

The takeaway

This tragic bus accident on Interstate 89 serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safe driving practices, especially for commercial operators transporting passengers in challenging winter weather conditions. The incident also highlights the need for ongoing infrastructure improvements and safety protocols to protect travelers on major highways.