Who is Most Likely to be Injured in a School Bus Accident?
School bus accidents draw attention because they involve children and also because they’re one of the most recognizable vehicles on the road.
Fatal school bus accidents like the one in Houston in September 2015, that killed two children are rare, federal safety figures suggest, and they rarely kill their most frequent passengers … students.
On average, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that of 134 people that die in school bus related accidents each year, 8% were passengers on the buses. Pedestrians, bicyclists and others outside the bus account for 21% of fatalities.
By far the most fatalities (71%) are people in other vehicles.
The size, design and power of school buses typically make them less likely to cause injuries to their passengers. Frame and safety enhancements protect students and other passengers from being seriously injured from a collision, while the bright yellow exterior, flashing lights and overall size, typically catch the eyes of other drivers on the road.
Bus drivers are screened to ensure students and other passengers travel in a safe environment to school. They participate in pre-employment screenings and random drug and alcohol tests to make sure they are capable of driving responsibly and can respond to emergency situations without hesitation if they do arise.
To drive a school bus in the state of Florida, one must have a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) along with both school bus (S) and passenger (P) endorsements, as well as the following:
- Receive school bus training and certification.
- Pass a school bus written test.
- Pass a driving test in the type of bus you want to drive.
- Pass a background check and maintain a clean criminal record.
- Have a clean driving record.
Because school buses are typically operated through government agencies and local school districts, liability involving school bus accident cases can be complicated. Accident victims and their loved ones may find it beneficial to meet with an experienced school bus accident attorney to see if there is a case to pursue.
It doesn’t matter who you are, or where you were going. Anyone who has suffered a significant injury in a school bus accident has a right to speak with a Florida car accident attorney to see if they have a case.
Don’t jeopardize your case – contact a Tampa school bus accident lawyer
The car accident lawsuit process is complicated, and best understood by an experienced attorney. Don’t jeopardize your case and the possibility of compensation for your injuries by foregoing representation.
The law firm of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk offers a free case evaluation to every new client. To schedule yours, call our office 24 hours a day at 1-800-538-4878.