School Bus Accidents: What Parents Should Know

It’s that time of year again. Children are going back to school. That means there are school buses on Texas roads.

While parents may have some trepidation about the upcoming school year, they shouldn’t have to worry too much about their children getting to school safely. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school buses are one of the safest modes of transportation for children.

However, accidents can still occur, and injuries may happen when boarding, exiting, or crossing near the bus. Both children and parents need to do their part to stay safe. Here are some safety tips and FAQs to help.

Bus Stop Safety Best Practices

Parents should teach children how to stay safe around school buses. Kids should arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes early and wait calmly at least 10 feet from the curb. When boarding or exiting, they must wait until the bus stops completely, the door opens, and the driver signals it’s safe, using handrails for support.

Children should never walk behind a bus. If crossing in front, they should stay 10 feet ahead, make eye contact with the driver, and cross only when seen. If something is dropped near the bus, children should tell the driver instead of retrieving it themselves.

School Bus Accident FAQs for Parents

Q: What should I do if my child is involved in a school bus accident?
A: First, seek immediate medical attention even if injuries seem minor, since some may appear later. Document what happened by collecting reports from the school district, police, or transportation company. Finally, consider contacting an attorney to understand your legal options.

Q: Who can be held liable in a school bus accident?
A: Liability depends on the cause. The bus driver, school district, private bus company, another motorist, or even a manufacturer (if mechanical failure occurred) could be responsible. In some cases, multiple parties may share liability.

Q: What if another driver illegally passes a stopped school bus and causes an accident?
A: Passing a stopped school bus with flashing red lights is illegal in all states. If this happens and causes harm, that driver is typically held liable. Criminal charges may apply.

Q: Can I file a claim for my child’s injuries?
A: Yes. Parents may pursue a personal injury claim to cover medical expenses, emotional distress, and other damages. The process often involves dealing with school districts or government agencies, which may have strict notice and filing deadlines.

Q: How long do I have to take legal action?
A: Deadlines vary. Because claims against school districts or municipalities often have shorter timelines than standard personal injury claims, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

While school buses are generally very safe, accidents still happen. It’s important for children and parents to know the general rules of safety.

In a crash? Get the help you need from a Houston bus accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. We’ll help you understand your legal rights so you can get the compensation you deserve and move on. To schedule a consultation with our office, fill out the online form or call (281) 347-3247.

Source:

nhtsa.gov/road-safety/school-bus-safety