When parents place their children on a school bus each morning, they expect a safe trip. School buses are among the safest forms of transportation, but accidents can still occur at any time.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that thousands of children are injured every year in transportation-related crashes. For parents, those numbers are more than statistics; they represent terrifying moments when trust is broken and lives are altered.
At Lowe Law Group, we understand both the legal and emotional weight families face after a bus accident.
Key Takeaways for Parents
- Responsibility may fall on bus drivers, schools, contractors, other motorists, or manufacturers.
- Common causes include distracted driving, illegal passing, poor maintenance, and unsafe bus stops.
- Children benefit from extended filing deadlines and legal protections.
- Documenting injuries and preserving evidence early strengthens cases.
- Multiple insurance policies can overlap; legal guidance helps secure fair compensation.
Who Can Be Held Responsible After a School Bus Crash
Liability in a school bus accident is rarely simple. Bus drivers may be accountable if fatigue, speeding, or distraction contributed to the crash. Records, such as logbooks or onboard camera footage, often provide valuable evidence. School districts may face liability if they hire unqualified drivers, fail to provide proper training, or choose unsafe bus stop locations. Many districts outsource transportation to private bus companies, which carry the same duty of care as schools.
Other motorists are also frequently involved. Drivers who illegally pass stopped buses or speed through school zones put children at significant risk. In some cases, liability extends further to manufacturers or maintenance providers when defective brakes, tire blowouts, or other mechanical failures are involved.
Because accidents often involve multiple factors, states with comparative negligence laws may divide responsibility among several parties. Lowe Law Group has handled child injury cases where reviewing driver logs, surveillance video, and maintenance records revealed exactly who was at fault.
Why School Bus Accidents Happen: Patterns Seen in Investigations
Investigations into bus crashes often reveal recurring issues, and driver-related problems, such as distraction, drowsiness, or inadequate training, are frequently identified. Third-party drivers also contribute to crashes by ignoring stop signs or illegally passing buses. According to the National Safety Council, illegal passing near school buses remains a significant cause of child pedestrian deaths.
Mechanical problems can also make buses unsafe. Brake failures, defective tires, or missed inspections may put dozens of children at risk. Environmental hazards, such as poorly marked bus stops or inadequate lighting, add to the danger. And of course, weather conditions such as rain, snow, and fog make safe driving more challenging.
Our attorneys work with accident reconstruction experts and investigators to identify root causes and hold every responsible party accountable.
Legal Protections for Children and Families After a Bus Crash
Children deserve special protection after a serious crash. Medical care takes priority, and parents should keep detailed records of every emergency visit, specialist appointment, and treatment recommendation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the unique risks children face in traffic-related incidents, underscoring the importance of proper care and documentation.
In many states, statutes of limitation for minors extend beyond those for adults, giving families more time to file claims. However, when a public school district is involved, deadlines can shrink significantly due to sovereign immunity rules. In such cases, a notice of claim may be required within a specified number of months of the incident.
Evidence preservation is also critical. Parents may request driver histories, bus maintenance records, or onboard video to support their case. At Lowe Law Group, we prioritize a client-first approach and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning families pay nothing unless we secure compensation.
How to Start a School Bus Accident Claim the Right Way
The first steps after an accident can shape the entire case:
- Report the crash to both law enforcement and the school district.
- Gather details, including the bus number, driver’s name, and witness information.
- Request evidence early, such as video footage or maintenance logs.
- Document injuries through medical records, school absence reports, and photos.
- Consult an attorney promptly to protect deadlines and handle insurer negotiations.
Our attorneys have secured strong results for families who acted quickly, ensuring vital evidence was preserved.
Insurance Coverage in School Bus Incidents: What Pays and When
School bus accidents often involve layers of insurance coverage. School districts or contractors typically carry liability policies, though these may have caps. When another driver causes the crash, their auto insurance is usually responsible. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, families may rely on UM/UIM coverage. Policies such as Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) can help cover immediate medical expenses, while umbrella or excess coverage may be applicable in cases involving catastrophic injuries.
Sorting through overlapping policies is complex. Our legal team ensures that insurers honor their obligations and that families receive the compensation they need for recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is usually liable in a school bus accident?
Responsibility can fall on the bus driver, the school district, another driver, or a manufacturer.
Can parents sue a school district?
Yes, but strict notice deadlines may apply under sovereign immunity laws.
How much time do I have to file a claim?
It varies by state. Claims involving minors often allow for more time, while government-related claims typically require filing within a specified timeframe.
What compensation is available?
Compensation may include medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future care costs.
Do I need an attorney?
Yes. School bus cases involve complex liability and insurance issues, making experienced legal guidance essential.
How long do cases take?
Some cases are resolved within a few months, while severe injury cases may take over a year to be resolved.
About Lowe Law Group
At Lowe Law Group, our mission is to fight for children and families harmed by preventable accidents. Our attorneys have recovered millions for clients nationwide and have extensive experience handling school bus and child injury cases. We combine compassionate advocacy with aggressive representation, always prioritizing our clients’ needs.
You can learn more about our firm and how we protect the rights of accident victims.
Contact Lowe Law Group today to schedule a free consultation. We listen. We care. YOU win!
