Across the country, countless children travel to and from school on buses each day. Though this is usually a safe form of transportation for them, school bus accidents in Merrillville can have devastating consequences for everybody involved.
If you have been hurt in a collision with one of these vehicles, you need to consider your legal options. If the driver or some other party is responsible for the crash, our team of compassionate bus accident attorneys could help you seek justice.
Common Causes of School Bus Collisions
Though there are numerous reasons incidents with school buses happen in Merrillville, here is a brief look at some of the most common causes.
Bus Driver Error
Mistakes made by the driver remain one of the leading causes of school bus accidents. This can include distracted driving, speeding, failing to obey traffic signals, or misjudging turns. Fatigue can also play a role, especially on early morning routes or toward the end of a long shift.
Other Motorists
The negligent actions of other drivers cause many accidents involving school buses. Passing a stopped bus, running red lights, or rear-ending a slowing or stopped bus can lead to serious collisions involving students boarding, riding in, or exiting the vehicle.
Poor Weather Conditions
Winter brings snow, ice, and reduced visibility, all of which can make roads hazardous. Even experienced drivers can struggle to maintain control under these conditions, particularly when driving a large, heavy vehicle.
Mechanical Failures
Defective brakes, tire blowouts, or steering issues may lead to loss of control and crashes. These conditions may result from manufacturing defects or improper maintenance and inspections.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Potholes, poorly marked lanes, and inadequate signage can all contribute to school bus accidents. These hazards increase the chance of rollover incidents or collisions.
Who Is To Blame When a School Bus Crashes?
When a crash with a school bus happens in Merrillville, one or more parties could ultimately be held responsible. These wrecks most often occur as the result of human error, making the bus driver a common defendant in these cases.
Other parties could also be at fault for your damages, even if the bus driver caused the accident. The owner of the bus might also be liable, whether it is a private company contracting with the government or a local school district. In these situations, it may be possible to sue the driver and their employer.
You also have the right to pursue compensation from the manufacturer of the bus if a defect led to the crash. These companies are held to a high standard, meaning you could be entitled to a settlement without having to prove the manufacturer was negligent.
Examples of School Bus Accident Injuries
Because of the tremendous force that can result from a school bus colliding with another vehicle, these accidents have the potential to cause severe injuries, the most common being:
- Broken bones
- Severe burns
- Internal bleeding
- Lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Paralysis
- Spinal damage
If you have suffered any of these injuries in a wreck involving a Merrillville school bus, you could be entitled to a monetary award.
Talk to a Merrillville Lawyer About Your Rights After Being Involved in a Crash With a School Bus
No one expects to suffer an injury in a sudden, traumatic collision with a school bus. Unfortunately, school bus accidents in Merrillville are more common than you might think.
Our attorneys at The Law Offices of David W. Holub could help you pursue compensation in the aftermath of such a crash. Reach out to us now to learn more.