One of the biggest fears of a parent is their child ever becoming harmed. While they usually take every precaution necessary to prevent this, they are not always with their children. As they grow older, children must leave their parents and are sometimes in the care of others. When this happens, parents hope that these other parties will keep their children safe. This is often the case when they send their children to school. Usually, school buses are safe and get children to where they need to be. However, accidents can happen in any vehicle, even school buses. This can lead to serious injuries for children. When facing these situations, it is important to retain the services of an experienced attorney to help your case.
How Can A School Bus Accident Happen?
There are numerous ways that an accident can happen on the road, even to school buses. This may be the case if there are poor road conditions, inclement weather conditions, malfunctioning parts on the bus, etc. Unfortunately, one of the leading causes of automobile accidents is driver negligence. This is when the driver of the vehicle does not operate it safely and to the best of their ability. This puts all passengers, such as children, in danger. Actions that are considered driver negligence can include speeding, texting while driving, improper lane changes, driving under the influence, and more.
Who Is Liable?
When an accident occurs due to negligence, injured parties often want to hold someone liable for their suffering. However, it is crucial to determine what party is liable for the incident depending on how the accident happened. The following parties may be held liable:
- School bus driver
- School district
- The private organization who owns and operates the bus
- The private company contracted to provide transportation for the school
- Third-party contracted to repair and maintain the bus
- School bus manufacturer
- Parts manufacturer
- The driver of another vehicle
- The municipality that is responsible for roadway designs and maintenance
Recovering Compensation
If an injured party is successful in proving negligence, they may be able to recover significant financial compensation. This is in place for any damages that happen as a result of the accident. Those harmed in school bus accidents may recover compensation for the following damages:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation
- Home health care
- Long-term care
- Special equipment and home modifications to accommodate a disability
- Lost income and future lost income
- Lose earning capacity
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Diminished quality of life
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing clients in Maryland who have been injured due to the negligence of another party. To learn more about whether you may be eligible for compensation after being injured, contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today and discuss your case.
