It’s estimated that more than 25 million school-aged children ride the bus each day in the U.S. While school buses are designed for efficiency and safety, accidents still happen. One of the best ways to prevent an accident for you or your child is by knowing and following school bus safety rules and guidelines.
If you are involved in an accident with a school bus that was not your fault, or if your child is injured while on the bus, you have rights. Our team at Fetterman Law will fight for those rights to help you heal and overcome the hardships caused by the accident.
Top Tips for School Bus Safety
Students are approximately 70 times more likely to get to school safely when riding a school bus than traveling by car. That’s because school buses are the most regulated vehicles on the road today. They are uniquely designed to be safer than traditional passenger vehicles and to prevent accidents and injuries.
While that is true, it is still up to parents and children to abide by some general safety rules when loading, riding and unloading a school bus.
School Bus Safety Tips for Drivers
Even if your child does not ride the bus, you have to remain diligent while behind the wheel in the morning and afternoon when buses are running. Some tips to follow include:
Avoid Distractions
Mornings are often hectic. You may be in a rush to get out of the door and find it difficult to focus on driving. When you get behind the wheel, make sure you pay attention. Children and buses can be anywhere, and taking your eyes off the road, even for a second, can lead to a fatal accident.
Watch for Children
Children can be injured if they are in an accident while riding a bus. However, they may also be injured while walking to or from the bus due to careless drivers. Don’t be one of those drivers. Always pay attention to what is going on around you.
Slow Down and Never Pass School Buses Illegally
If you are near a bus, slow down. Also, never pass a stopped bus. Not only is this dangerous, but it is also illegal. In fact, the minimum fine for passing a bus illegally is $200 to $400 in Florida. If you are charged a second time within five years, your license can be suspended for up to two years.
School Bus Safety Tips for Parents and Children
It isn’t just up to other drivers to work to avoid an accident. Parents and children must also do their part in staying safe. There are a few tips for this group of people, too, to remain safe while loading, riding, or unloading on a school bus.
- Get to the bus stop a minimum of five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
- Show children where to stand while waiting for the bus.
- Ensure children know the number of their bus and the name of the bus driver.
- Instruct children to never walk behind a bus.
- Instruct children to look both ways before crossing the street.
- Children need to remain seated while on the bus and keep the aisle clear.
- Children should not be disruptive or loud while riding the bus.
How to Handle a School Bus Accident
Even if everyone follows the rules, drives safely, and does everything right, accidents can happen. Sometimes accidents are due to poor driving conditions, faulty vehicle parts, mechanical defects, negligence of others, or something else.
If you or your child are seriously injured in a school bus accident that another driver caused, you may be able to receive compensation.
Remember, school bus accidents in Florida can be complex. Often, there is more than one liable party. Some of the parties that may be liable for a school bus accident include:
- The bus driver
- The bus company
- The school district
- Another driver
- A municipality (in the case of bad road conditions)
Because of how complex these cases can be, the best thing you can do is to contact an attorney. They can review the facts of your case and let you know what needs to be done moving forward.
Contact Our Legal Team for Help
Our team is here to help with your school bus accident. We have years of experience handling cases, just like yours. We will be your advocate and protect your rights while helping you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Are you in need of legal representation for a school bus accident case? If so, contact our team at Fetterman Law by calling (561) 845-2510. We are here to help you. Call today and let us get started on your case.
