Each day, the school bus plays an important part in the lives of 26 million children throughout the United States. All too often, however, the importance of school bus safety is taken for granted, only garnering media attention when accidents happen.
Every third week of October, National School Bus Safety Week serves as a reminder of how crucial it is to regularly overhaul and update school bus safety protocols. Hosted by the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) and the National School Transportation System (NSTA), National School Bus Safety Week serves to ensure that these protocols are constantly practiced by not only bus drivers, but also by mechanics and maintenance engineers. In addition, National School Bus Safety Week also strives to teach parents how they can help ensure their children’s safety on their daily ride.
Even with the best practices, however, accidents — whether caused by human error, mechanical malfunction, weather conditions or irresponsible drivers — can still occur. For example, according to statistics, more than 10 million driverspass school buses each year, even though this is illegal nationwide.
The good news is that, according to the US Department of Transportation, students taking the bus to school are 70 times more likely to get there safely than those being driven by car; but school bus accidents unfortunately still occur. Here’s a look at several ways you can involve yourself with school bus safety, along with a checklist of things you’ll need to do in case of a school bus injury.
School Bus Safety: What You Need To Know and Do
Prevention is better than cure; and as a parent, you can help prevent school bus accidents by taking a proactive approach to your child’s daily school bus rides. One of the most important things you can do is talk to your children about school bus safety, coaching them in safety rules and regulations until they know them by heart. Important tips include:
- Arrive at least five minutes before the bus arrives
- Stand six feet (or three giant steps) away from the curb
- Never walk behind the bus
- When crossing in front of the bus, first make eye contact with the driver and stay at least 10 feet (five giant steps) away from the bus
- If you drop something, don’t pick it up, but ask the driver to retrieve it for you
- Wait until the bus has stopped and the door has opened before trying to board or leave the bus
- Use the handrail whenever you’re standing inside the bus
- Secure all loose objects (like hoodie drawstrings or backpack straps)
- Keep the aisles clear
- Use seat belts if available
- Stay in your seat
- Don’t stick your head, hands or arms out of an open window
- Talk quietly and don’t make any loud noises
Also, be sure to question your children about their daily commute. If you hear or see anything that concerns you, mention it to school officials.
Prioritize Medical Concerns
If you, your child, or someone else is injured in a school bus accident, the first priority is getting immediate medical attention. Even if an injury seems minor or non-existent, it’s crucial to get a thorough medical exam accompanied by the appropriate imaging tests. In the case of accident victims, injuries often don’t become apparent until several days later. Likewise, internal injuries sometimes have no visible appearance, even if they’re serious. Common vehicular injuries include concussion, whiplash and back injuries; so it’s important not to wait, but get a physical exam immediately after the accident.
Take Notes and Make Documentation
Once you (or the school authorities) have called the police and medical help is on the way, this is the time to get as much pictorial/video documentation as you can of the accident. This includes using your cell phone, tablet or other mobile device to take photos and videos of your car, the school bus and any other vehicles involved before they’re moved. These can serve as important pieces of visual evidence when it comes to insurance and legal claims. In addition, it’s also a good idea to immediately make notes of everything you can remember about the accident, in case you forget important details later. This information can prove invaluable to an attorney who is helping you process your legal and insurance claims.
Make Sure the School is Involved
No matter who is liable in a school bus accident, a reputable school administration should be involved in every step of its aftermath, from identifying the cause and liability, to providing valuable information when you file the necessary claims for insurance, or in case of lawsuits.
Get Professional Legal Help Immediately
No matter who is initially considered liable, it’s crucial to get professional legal help after a school bus accident has occurred. Vehicular accident claims — especially when involving commercial vehicles such as delivery trucks and school buses — can be complicated and involve a good deal of paperwork, as well as a solid knowledge of the law. This is especially true if it’s necessary to file a claim against a school district or multiple parties.
That’s why it’s essential to look for a legal firm with expertise in handling cases involving commercial vehicles. As a personal injury law firm that focuses on plaintiff rights, Bennett Injury Law represents individuals in a wide range of commercial vehicle accident cases, including school bus accidents. Whether the case goes to trial or is handled in arbitration, Bennett Injury Law has an expert team of attorneys who are experienced in every aspect of personal injury law. This expertise gives them the legal tools to navigate through your case, no matter how complicated, so that you and your rights are represented and protected to the fullest extent of the law.
School bus safety may not be the first thing on your mind when you see your child off to school each day, but it’s an essential part of your child’s life. By teaching your child these simple school bus rules, and arming yourself and your child with the best medical help and legal protection if an accident does occur, you can be proactive in ensuring your child’s safety and well-being.
