Every parent’s priority is their child’s safety, especially when they step onto a school bus, heading to what should be a secure environment. But what happens when that trust is broken by an unexpected injury? The journey that was meant to be safe suddenly becomes a source of pain and questions. Who is responsible? These are not just legal concerns—they’re deeply personal ones, and understanding who may be liable is the first step in seeking accountability and peace of mind.
At Hollis Law Firm, we understand the profound impact an injury to your child can have on your family. With years of experience handling complex cases, we know how to navigate the legal challenges to uncover who may be at fault. Our dedication to combining legal knowledge with a deep understanding of the facts ensures we pursue the best possible outcomes for families facing these difficult situations.
Who Is Liable for a School Bus Accident?
Liability generally refers to one or more people or entities who are responsible for injuries or monetary losses. So, in a school bus accident, those liable are generally held accountable for paying medical bills, loss of enjoyment of life, and other related damages.
Depending on the circumstances, many entities may be found partially or completely liable for your child’s injuries and suffering. The following are parties you should consider before taking legal action:
- Bus driver
- Bus company
- Maintenance employees
- Another vehicle driver
- Vehicle, equipment, or parts manufacturer
- Property owner or renter
- Employees or employer of the premises
- Passengers or pedestrians involved in the incident
- City or state government entities
- School district
There may be cases where other parties are liable, so we encourage you to consider all potentially involved individuals. In some situations, more than one party may be responsible, which may mean you must take legal action against more than one individual. For assistance determining who is responsible for your child’s injuries and any related monetary damages, we encourage you to contact Hollis Law Firm for support.
How to Prove Liability in a School Bus Accident Involving Children
Like other personal injury claims, there are four essential elements a victim must prove are true to win compensation after a school bus accident. Those elements include and are broken down into the following:
Duty of Care
“Duty of care” is someone’s responsibility to maintain safety in a given situation. For example, the employer for the bus driver must hire and properly train all of their employees. School districts must vet vendors and ensure the children they are responsible for stay safe. Bus manufacturers must also check and test their vehicles to meet necessary safety standards.
Negligence
Also referred to as a breach of duty of care, negligence occurs when someone does not maintain safety according to expectations. For example, a bus driver may be negligent for using their cell phone while driving. Other drivers may be negligent if they don’t follow traffic laws related to road and school bus safety.
Causation of Injuries
Having injuries is not enough to prove you deserve compensation, and neither is proof of negligence. You must prove that someone’s negligence directly impacted your injuries, whether they caused the injury, made bodily damages more severe than they would have been, or anywhere in between. To prove causation, we recommend seeking medical attention as soon as possible.
Monetary Damages
To receive compensation for your child’s losses and injuries, you must prove that the accident resulted in the direct loss of money. These damages may include medical bills, loss of wages, property damage, wrongful death, and other connected losses with objective monetary values.
If you need assistance proving liability in your child’s school bus accident, you don’t have to face legal matters alone. While the process can be overwhelming, an attorney from Hollis Law Firm can provide extensive support and guidance. We prioritize bringing you the complete compensation you deserve after your suffering, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
Why Choose Hollis Law Firm for Your Child’s School Bus Injury Case?
At Hollis Law Firm, we understand the fear and frustration that can arise when your child is injured in what should have been a safe environment. Our years of experience, combined with our deep commitment to holding negligent parties accountable, allow us to thoroughly investigate the facts of your case and determine who is liable.
If your child has been injured in a school bus accident, you deserve legal guidance that prioritizes your family’s recovery and long-term well-being. We work diligently to uncover every responsible party, build a strong case, and seek the compensation you may be entitled to. Contact Hollis Law Firm today at (800) 701-3672 or through our contact form.
