U.S. School Bus Crash Statistics

Each day, millions of children ride buses to school. School buses are one of the safest transportation methods in the United States with less than 1% of traffic fatalities in the United States involving children in school transport vehicles.

Unfortunately, even some of the safest forms of transportation can still be involved in school bus crash and cause injuries. In a school bus accident, the victims are often young student passengers, which means this should always be a consideration for parents.

It is important to know what to do if your child is involved in a school bus crash. Consulting with a trusted bus accident attorney can help you learn how to protect your rights and take legal action.

Understanding School Bus Safety: Key Statistics

While rare, school bus accidents can be a concerning issue for both parents and school administrators. Understanding the statistics behind these accidents can help shed light on the importance of taking appropriate action to prevent them.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an annual average of 124 school-age pedestrians are involved in fatal transportation-related accidents, with 22 of those fatalities involving a school bus.

Non-fatal school bus accidents can result in injuries, not only to the children riding the bus but also to other motorists on the road. The NHTSA reports that in recent years, an estimated 38,000 people have been injured in school bus-related crashes. These injuries range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious fractures and head trauma.

Promoting Pedestrian Safety Around School Buses

The safety of children is a top priority, especially when it comes to their commute to and from school. As responsible members of the community, it is essential that we take steps to promote pedestrian safety around school buses.

One crucial aspect of pedestrian safety is understanding the laws and regulations surrounding school buses. In all states, it is illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped with its stop sign extended and red lights flashing. This is because children may be crossing the street in front of or behind the bus, and passing vehicles can pose a significant risk. By obeying these laws, we ensure the safety of our young pedestrians.

Another key factor in promoting pedestrian safety is educating children about bus safety rules. Teaching them to stay away from the bus until it has come to a complete stop, wait for the driver’s signal to board or disembark, and cross in front of the bus at a safe distance can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. It is also important for parents to reinforce these rules at home and remind their children about them regularly.

When Safety Counts: A Look at School Bus Safety by Time

According to statistics, the following time periods have the highest risk of school bus-related accidents and injuries:

• 6 to 7 a.m.
• 3 to 4 p.m.
• 7 to 8 a.m

Common Causes of School Bus Crash: Staying Safe on the Road

School bus accidents can have costly consequences, both for the students on board and for other motorists sharing the road. It is important to understand the common causes of these accidents to prevent them and to protect your legal rights following a crash.

One of the leading causes of school bus accidents is driver error. When bus drivers are not properly trained or are distracted while behind the wheel, accidents can occur. It is crucial for bus drivers to follow all traffic laws, remain focused on the road, and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Additionally, poor maintenance and mechanical issues can contribute to school bus accidents. Regular inspections and maintenance should be conducted to ensure that buses are in proper working condition. Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or other mechanical failures can lead to accidents that could have been prevented.

Steps to Take After a School Bus Crash: Protecting Your Child

School buses carry more occupants than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded school bus can weigh up to 15,000 pounds, leading to many injuries in a collision. As a victim of a school bus collision, you or your child may have to deal with:

• Back pain
• Whiplash injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Broken or fractured bones
• Head injuries

Injuries after a school bus crash can drain you emotionally or physically in your attempt to recover.  Personal injury law allows victims of bus accidents to obtain compensation from the at-fault party.

While you are entitled to compensation, the steps you take after an accident protect your right to compensation.

Consider taking the following steps after being involved in a bus crash due to someone else’s negligence:

• Immediately After the Accident: Take measures to prevent further harm to you and other road users. For instance, move yourself to the side of the road if it is safe. You should also contact 911 for help if someone is injured. Most importantly, report the school bus crash to the local police department.
• Gather Accident-Related Information: You’ll also want to gather information related to the crash, which is important while processing the claim. Obtain evidence of the accident to obtain compensation from the liable party. For instance, note the names of passengers and bystanders who witnessed the crash.

Medical Attention After a School Bus Crash

Bus accidents cause injuries even at slow speeds. The symptoms of some injuries are not apparent immediately after an accident. Internal bleeding, a life-threatening injury, can remain concealed for a few days after the crash.

A comprehensive medical examination can reveal any hidden issues. A healthcare provider will also create a medical record, a source of evidence for a future personal injury claim.

Getting immediate medical attention for yourself or your child is critical for both your health and legal claim. Even if your symptoms initially seem minor, getting a medical evaluation can only benefit your situation.

Determining Liability in a School Bus Wreck

When a school bus wreck occurs, various parties may be liable for the damage, including:

• The bus driver
• The driver of the other vehicle
• The manufacturer of the bus
• The bus owner
• Highway maintenance authority

Seeking compensation from certain parties, such as public school districts or government agencies, can be challenging and time-sensitive. Never wait to have a bus accident attorney begin investigating your options.

Determining liability involves establishing the negligent party who contributed to the accident.

Some of the evidence used to determine liability in a bus accident includes:

• Images of the scene
• Police accident report
• Skid marks
• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
• Medical bills
• Traffic camera footage

Your attorney can gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case in your favor.

Injured in a School Bus Accident? Get Legal Help From an Experienced Attorney

Following injuries from a school bus accident, you deserve compensation for injury-related losses like medical expenses, emotional anguish, and pain and suffering. An experienced attorney can compile evidence, prove the extent of your injury, and negotiate a fair settlement for your losses.

The Barnes Firm has over 500 combined years of experience, and we can pursue compensation from the at-fault party. Contact us online or at (800) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
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