If you or your child has been involved in a school bus accident, it’s a deeply upsetting event. These accidents don’t just lead to physical injuries; they also cause emotional pain and bring unexpected financial strain. In Glendale, as well as throughout Arizona, you have the right to pursue compensation for this type of tragedy. A school bus accident lawyer can guide you through this process, fighting to get you the compensation you deserve for what you’ve been through.
Below, Perez Law Group, PLLC walks you through the essential information regarding school bus accidents—including their common causes, the legal pathways available to victims, the types of compensation you may be eligible for, and the significant difference having a compassionate and skilled lawyer by your side can make in these situations.
Types of School Bus Accidents
One common type of bus accident is collisions with other vehicles. This occurs when a school bus and another car or truck hit each other. Another type is single-vehicle accidents, where the bus might crash into something without involving another vehicle, like running off the road or hitting a pole. Sometimes, accidents happen when passengers are getting on or off the bus. These can be particularly dangerous because people are directly exposed to traffic. Lastly, there are incidents within the bus, such as slips, trips, and falls, especially when the bus is moving, stopping abruptly, or when conditions inside the bus are unsafe.
Causes of School Bus Accidents
The reasons behind school bus accidents can vary. Driver error is a leading cause. This includes things like speeding, not paying attention, or not following road rules. Weather conditions also play a big part. Rain, snow, ice, and fog can make driving a school bus much harder, increasing the risk of accidents. Mechanical failures, such as brake problems or tire blowouts, are another cause. Sometimes, the design of the road itself or poor road conditions, like potholes or unclear signs, can lead to accidents. Lastly, other drivers on the road behaving recklessly or unpredictably can cause accidents involving school buses.
Where School Bus Accidents Happen
In Glendale, Arizona, school bus accidents can happen anywhere but are more likely in busy areas. Near schools, where buses are frequently stopping and starting, is a common spot. Major roads and intersections, especially those with a lot of traffic or confusing layouts, are also places where accidents can occur.
Potential Liable Parties in a School Bus Accident Case
If you or your child are involved in a school bus accident in Glendale, Arizona, several parties might be responsible. The bus driver could be liable, especially if their negligence, like speeding or not paying attention, caused the accident. The school district or the bus company might also be responsible if the accident was because of poor maintenance of the bus or not properly training the driver. Additionally, if another vehicle was involved, the driver of that vehicle could be at fault, particularly if they were driving recklessly.
Legal Options for a School Bus Accident Victim
After a school bus accident, you have a couple of options for seeking compensation. One way is to file an insurance claim. This involves notifying the insurance companyof the accident and working with them to cover the expenses related to the accident. If the insurance claim doesn’t fully cover your needs or if the process stalls, you might consider filing a lawsuit. This is where you take the case to court to seek compensation. In Arizona, you have a specific time frame to file a lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, so it’s important to act promptly. A school bus accident lawyer can help you with this process, ensuring you understand your rights and the steps you need to take.
Potential Damages in a School Bus Accident Case
A school bus accident can significantly impact your life, leading to injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. In Arizona, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages if you’re unable to work, and pain and suffering. If the accident results in a death, the state’s wrongful death laws allow certain family members to seek damages for their loss. Additionally, Arizona follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning if you’re partly at fault for the accident, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Steps to Take After a School Bus Accident
If you’re involved in a school bus accident, first make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if there are any injuries. Then, if you can, take pictures of the scene and get contact information from witnesses. It’s important to report the accidentto the police so there’s a record. Finally, seek medical attention even if you don’t think you’re hurt, as some injuries might not be immediately obvious.
How a School Bus Accident Lawyer Helps
A school bus accident lawyer can be a big help to victims. They can handle talking to insurance companies and making sure you don’t settle for less than you deserve. They know the laws and can help file a lawsuit if needed. A lawyer will work to get compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and any other costs from the accident. They’re there to guide you through the entire process, making it less overwhelming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do right after a school bus accident? Make sure everyone is okay, call 911 if anyone is hurt, take pictures, get names and phone numbers of any witnesses, and report the accident to the police.
Can I file a claim for my child’s injuries? Yes, you can file a claim if your child gets hurt in a school bus accident.
Who might have to pay for the accident? The bus driver, the school or bus company, or another driver could be responsible.
How long do I have to start a claim or lawsuit? You usually have two years from the accident to start a claim or lawsuit in Arizona, but the timeline is shorter for claims against the government.
What kind of money can I get? You might get money for medical bills, lost pay if you can’t work, and for pain and suffering.
What if I or my child was also at fault? You might still get some money, but it could be less based on how much the accident was your or your child’s fault.
How do I handle insurance companies? It’s best to let a lawyer talk to the insurance companies to make sure your rights are protected.
What if the other driver has no insurance? You might still have ways to get money through your own insurance or by suing.
Glendale Arizona School Bus Accident Attorney
If you or your child have been in a school bus accident, it’s really important to understand what you should do next. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Perez Law Group, PLLC bus accident lawyers are here to guide you through the steps and help you understand your rights and what options you have. Give us a call at (602) 730-7100 or contact us online for a consultation. We’re here to support you in this tough time and fight to get you the compensation you rightfully deserve.
