The seatbelts might not have saved them but then again they might have. Fact is we will never know.
We are required by law to wear them in a car,truck,semi but yet our most valuable cargo isn't required to have them worn or even supplied.
That doesn't make any sense to me at all.
When I was a bus aid in Pittsburgh the bus had seat belts and we did make sure each child wore them.
For the age group that were part of this accident, they are well aware of the legal requirements with seat belts. So them using them while on the bus shouldn't be that tough.
Regardless, My prayers go out to the family and friends of ALL involved in this crash.