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School Bus Accident Lawyers

Accidents on school buses often result in catastrophic injuries to students and lead to long-term losses for their families, from the expensive cost of medical care to the child’s long-term challenges. The school bus accident lawyers at NST Law provide the support that these parents and families need, identifying the liable party and winning the compensation that the family deserves. 

school bus accident lawyers

Millions of children nationwide rely on school buses daily to get to school. Although the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that school buses remain one of the safest vehicles, accidents still happen, and injuries can result, particularly because of the lack of seat belts on most buses. 

You entrust school bus drivers with the most precious of cargo—your children. When an accident happens, it can have heartbreaking results. Parents and children have to deal with the devastating aftermath, including substantial injuries to the child, high medical costs, and a long road to recovery. 

If your child suffered injuries in a school bus accident, you need an experienced lawyer who can guide you through the claim process and maximize the compensation you receive. At NST Law, we provide legal support for families in Memphis, Knoxville, Nashville, Little Rock, St. Louis, Belleville, Jackson, Cape Girardeau, Jonesboro, Tupelo, and the surrounding areas who have faced the devastating aftermath of a school bus accident. 

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NST Law Can Help with Your School Bus Accident Claim

At NST Law, we are champions for the injured, with a proven history of results in personal injury claims. We have recovered more than $2 billion in verdicts, judgments, and settlements over the past 30 years as we continue to aggressively represent accident victims and their families. 

We Understand School Bus Accident Claims

School bus accident claims can prove complicated. In some areas, the local government operates the school bus system, which can reduce the statute of limitations and shorten the timeline for pursuing damages. In others, the government outsources it to a third-party company. 

Furthermore, it may be necessary to establish whether liability rests directly with the bus driver, another driver who caused an accident, or the bus company itself. At NST Law, we understand these complexities and will fight to help you recover fair compensation for your child’s injuries. 

We Know School Bus Safety Regulations

Each state has unique regulations for school bus safety. In addition, school buses must meet federal regulations for student safety. Unfortunately, many areas fail to follow those regulations. For example, overcrowding is a serious issue on many buses, increasing the risk of an accident. At NST Law, we understand the school bus safety regulations at both the federal and state level. We have helped parents identify the violations committed by the bus company or the school system, making establishing liability easier after a bus accident. 

At NST Law, our high success rate proves that we get results.

NST Law's Approach to School Bus Accident Cases

NST Law has proven procedures to pursue a school bus accident claim. Among other things, we will do the following: 

  1. Conduct a comprehensive investigation and an analysis of the accident. We closely examine all factors contributing to the accident and your child’s injuries. 
  2. Provide you with aggressive representation in negotiations and court. We understand the losses faced by the families of school bus accident victims, and we vigorously seek the compensation they deserve after an accident.
  3. Give you personalized attention and communication. A bus accident is unsettling for the entire family. We ensure our clients feel supported throughout the legal process. 
Kids lining up to get onto a schoolbus

Steps to Take After a School Bus Accident

After a school bus accident, protect your child and your family by: 

  • Seeking medical attention immediately for any injuries. This can prove essential to both physical recovery and a school bus accident claim.
  • Reporting the accident to the authorities.
  • Contacting NST Law for legal representation. Having a lawyer on your side makes it much easier to handle the claim process.
  • Gathering evidence and documentation. Take photos of the accident scene, make notes of all physical evidence, document any injuries, and get contact information of any witnesses. Keep track of medical records and bills.

Common Causes of School Bus Accidents

School bus accidents occur for several reasons. Below are some of the most prevalent causes.    

Driver Negligence

School bus drivers may be responsible for the accident by doing the following, among other things:

  • Ignoring the rules of the road
  • Driving while distracted despite hands-free laws in most states
  • Driving while drowsy
  • Speeding
  • Failing to keep a proper lookout for surrounding traffic and obstacles
  • Weaving in and out of traffic

These acts of negligence substantially increase the risk of an accident. 

A school bus being towed away

Mechanical Failures

Mechanical failures often occur because of poor maintenance on the bus. We will obtain service records to uncover any potential mechanical causes and determine whether the liable party properly cared for the vehicle.

Poor Road Conditions

Damaged roads, poor weather conditions, and narrow back roads pose a danger for school buses and their passengers. School bus drivers may face more damaged roads in rural areas, where students and drivers alike spend more time on the bus due to winding roads and greater distance between residences.

Reckless Drivers

Many drivers disregard the rules for safely sharing the road with school buses, ignoring the flashing lights and stop signs indicating buses are unloading children. 

School bus with a stop sign out

Compensation for School Bus Accident Victims

School bus accident victims may have the right to seek compensation in several key areas after an accident. Below are some of the most common damages awarded in bus accident cases.

Medical Expenses

Medical expenses are often one of the top financial concerns after any type of accident, including a school bus accident. 

Lost Wages

You may lose out on income while you’re at home recovering or taking care of your recovering child. You may have the right to seek compensation to ease the financial burden of such a misfortune. 

Pain and Suffering

The injured victim may have the right to seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional challenges accompanying a school bus accident. 

Wrongful Death

If you lose a child in a school bus accident, you may have the right to seek compensation. 

School Bus Accident FAQs

What Should I Do if My Child is Involved in a School Bus Accident?

Seek medical attention for any injuries immediately. Make sure that you document the accident and report it. Then contact NST Law for help with your next steps toward getting compensation.

Who Is Liable in a School Bus Accident?

Liability for a school bus accident can rest with the following:

  • The bus driver
  • The bus company
  • Another driver that causes the accident
  • The school district

NST Law can help determine who bears liability for your child’s school bus accident and what you should do next.

Should I Contact a Lawyer after a School Bus Accident?

Filing a claim against a government entity can prove incredibly complicated. A school bus accident lawyer can guide your next steps and increase the odds that your family will recover fair compensation for your losses. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim after a School Bus Accident?

The statute of limitations governs how long you have to file a school bus accident claim. These deadlines vary from state to state. In addition, some states have shorter deadlines for claims against government entities. It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to preserve your rights. Failure to meet a deadline may cause you to forfeit your right to compensation for an accident. 

What if My Child Was Injured in a School Bus Accident Due to Faulty Equipment?

The bus company or school district may be liable for a school bus accident involving faulty equipment. In addition, the manufacturer may be on the hook for selling a defective part. A skilled and knowledgeable attorney can fully investigate the accident, determine the cause, and identify all responsible parties. 

Contact a School Bus Accident Attorney

If you or your child suffered injuries in a school bus accident, your family may have the right to seek compensation for your losses. A lawyer will guide you through the claim process and provide crucial support. Contact NST Law today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced school bus accident lawyer.