St. Louis School Bus Accident Lawyer

As parents, our top priority is the safety of our children. Regarding school transportation, school buses are often seen as a safe option. However, accidents can still occur, and parents need to know their rights and options if their child is involved in a school bus accident.

 

This article will discuss school bus accidents, the laws that protect children, and the steps parents can take to safeguard their children and seek compensation if necessary.

 

School Bus Accidents: The Statistics

 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school buses are among children's safest forms of transportation. The NHTSA reports that children are about 70 times more likely to get to school safely on a school bus than in a car.

 

However, accidents can still happen. The NHTSA reports that between 2008 and 2017, there were 1,147 people killed in school transportation-related crashes. Of those, 264 were school-age children. While these numbers may seem small compared to the total number of car accidents, they are still devastating for the families involved.

 

What Does the Law Say?

In Missouri, as in most states, there are laws that protect school buses and the children who ride them. Drivers must stop when a school bus stops to let students on or off the vehicle, whether at the educational institution or in the area where the children live.

 

Unfortunately, distracted drivers or those in a hurry may not follow these laws and cause an accident. If a driver is found to be at fault for an accident involving a school bus, they may be liable for any injuries or damages that result.

 

Things can be more complicated if the school bus driver is found to be at fault for an accident. School districts are typically government entities with their own set of rules and regulations regarding liability. It can be challenging for parents to seek compensation from a government entity, and the process can be more complex than if they were seeking compensation from an individual driver.

 

How Can Parents Protect Their Children?

While accidents can happen, there are steps parents can take to help protect their children when they are riding on a school bus.

 

First, parents should ensure their children understand the rules for riding on a school bus. This includes staying in their seat, not throwing things, and not distracting the driver.

 

Parents should also talk to their children about the importance of wearing their seatbelt on the bus. While school buses are designed to be safe, seatbelts can provide an extra level of protection in the event of an accident.

 

Finally, parents should know the school's transportation policies and procedures. This includes things like how to report an accident and get in touch with the school in the event of an emergency.

 

How to Proceed After a School Bus Accident

After a school bus accident, the first thing parents should do is ensure the safety and well-being of their child. Seek medical attention immediately, even if the injuries seem minor. Injuries such as concussions or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent, so it is crucial to seek medical attention to ensure your child is healthy.

 

The next step is to gather information about the accident. Try to obtain witnesses' names and contact information and take photos of the scene and any damages. The more evidence you can collect, the stronger your case will be.

 

Once you have taken care of your child's well-being and collected evidence, it is time to contact an experienced school bus accident lawyer in St. Louis. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

 

Why Choose The Hoffmann Law Firm?

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. is a St. Louis-based law firm specializing in car accident cases, including school bus accidents. We have over 25 years of experience handling bus accident cases, and our attorneys are well-versed in the laws and regulations surrounding St. Louis auto accidents.

 

At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., our attorneys understand the stress and anxiety that parents face when their child is involved in an accident. That's why we offer a free consultation to evaluate your claim and help you determine your next steps. We also work on a contingency basis, which means you will only pay us something if we win your case.

 

Contact a St. Louis School Bus Accident Attorney

If your child has been injured in a school bus accident, don't hesitate to contact The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. Our experienced attorneys are ready to help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. Call us 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 !