The Humboldt Transit Authority is investigating the actions of one of its drivers after a Redwood Transit System bus sideswiped a parked van while attempting to make a scheduled stop near the intersection of 4th and L Streets in Eureka yesterday at approximately 5:15 p.m. with passengers on board.

HTA General Manager Greg Pratt told the Outpost that no injuries were reported as a result of the crash and that the bus received minor damages.

Eureka Police Department spokesperson Brittany Powell told the Outpost the crash was not reported to police by any involved parties.

“Non-injury collisions are civil issues and don’t need police response,” Powell said. “But usually, businesses request them — especially if they are transporting people.”

Pratt confirmed that officers were not called to the scene and that HTA policy does not require employees to alert police in instances of minor crashes with no reported injuries.

“[Authorities are called] any time there is any kind of injury,” Pratt said of the ongoing investigation. “It sounds like we already talked to the vehicle owner and exchanged info.”

The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the HTA — a joint agency governed by a board of officials representing the County of Humboldt and the Cities of Arcata, Eureka, Fortuna, Rio Dell and Trinidad. 

The involved driver, who has worked for the HTA for less than a year, is reportedly undergoing a standard drug and alcohol test as part of the investigation.

“There are thresholds we follow under the [Federal Transit Administration],” Pratt said. “Anytime there is a certain type of accident or injury, employees are to be drug and alcohol tested.”

Involved passengers were picked up by a replacement HTA bus to complete their trip.