Parents send their kids off to school every day expecting them to return safely. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Each year, 17,000 kids are injured in accidents associated with bus stops, and around 20 are killed, according to a study by Stanford’s Children’s Health.
In Pennsylvania, it is illegal to pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing and stop arm is extended. If convicted of breaking this law, someone could get a $250 fine, five points on their driving record, and a 60-day suspension of their license.
Unfortunately, some people still pas school buses, either accidentally, or because they’re distracted, in a rush or intoxicated.
When a child is injured, the most important thing is to get immediate medical treatment for the child. After the child has been treated and is recovering, the attention might turn to getting justice and compensation for the injuries caused by someone’s negligence.
Girl Injured Getting on School Bus in Bensalem
A 12-year-old girl was struck by a car around 7:30 a.m., Monday, January 6, 2020, attempting to board a school bus, but thankfully survived. According to the Bensalem Police Department, the accident happened at Bensalem Boulevard and Timber Avenue when a white pickup failed to stop for the bus that was picking up students for school.
Police say they believe that the bus driver had its stop sign out and lights flashing and that the driver wasn’t paying attention. The girl was transported to a local hospital.
Who is Liable in a Bus Stop Accident?
Over 40 percent of all bus stop accidents happen when the child is getting on or off the bus and is struck by a car. Of the deaths, the majority happen in the bus “danger zone” which is a 10’ section in front of the bus extending out each side.
Of course, the driver of any vehicle that hits a child in the school bus zone is liable for the accident, and their insurance company will pay for the damages. However, can the school bus driver be sued? What about the school district or bus company?
If the driver is a public employee, then the law shields them from personal liability, however, the school district can be sued for negligence if the bus driver did something that caused or contributed to the accident. One example might be failing to turn on lights and stop sign deployment.
Another might be letting a child off in a place that has poor visibility for the motorist like around a sharp turn, especially if there had been prior close calls or accidents.
Contact a Philadelphia Children’s Injury Lawyer.
Injuries to children are one of the most painful experiences that your family can endure. Sometimes called Philadelphia’s Children’s Attorney, Edith Pearce is experienced in representing the interest of children and their families who are seeking justice for their child.
Edith has extensive experience representing children and seeking justice on their behalf. With Edith, you can come and talk, ask questions and then decide what’s best for you without worrying about making a commitment or paying a consultation fee. She knows that where children and family are concerned, the parents want only what’s best for their child and their family, and she will work hard to do just that.