School Bus Accidents and Safety
School buses are a common sight across Texas and all over the United States. When school is in session, millions of children ride the bus to and from school.
Despite not always having seat belts, school buses are considered to be very safe. They are large and built to be extremely sturdy. In fact, children are safer in school buses than they are in cars with their parents or other adults.
Still, accidents do happen and they can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. From 2011 to 2020, there were 1,009 fatal crashes involving school buses. Of those, 52% were between the ages of 5 and 10 years old.
School bus accidents may be caused by the bus driver or a third party. The district could be held liable if they failed to maintain the bus or hired drivers who were not qualified. Here are some common causes of bus accidents.
Driver Error
Bus drivers can be negligent in many ways. They may include distracted driving, such as using mobile devices or eating while behind the wheel. Fatigue can also be an issue, as drivers may be behind the wheel for long hours. This can impair a driver’s reaction time and judgment. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also a possibility. So is poor training. Buses are large and hard to control. Drivers need to be able to control them safely.
Mechanical Failures
Mechanical failures beyond the driver’s control can also lead to accidents. An example is malfunctioning brakes, which can lead to an inability to stop the bus in time. Issues with the steering mechanism can make it difficult to control the bus. Worn or improperly maintained tires can blow out, causing loss of control. Mechanical problems with the engine can lead to sudden stops or loss of power.
Environmental Conditions
Problems with the weather or road can also lead to bus accidents. Rain, snow, ice, fog, and high winds can create hazardous driving conditions. Poorly maintained roads, potholes, and debris can cause accidents. Low visibility due to fog, heavy rain, or darkness can make it difficult to see obstacles or other vehicles.
Bus Design and Maintenance Issues
Some buses may have design flaws that make them more prone to accidents. Lack of maintenance can also be an issue. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure all parts of the bus are functioning correctly.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Parents don’t often worry about their children getting injured in a bus crash. While buses are very sturdy and generally safe, accidents do happen and people have gotten killed while riding buses.
A Houston bus accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC can assist you. If you have been injured in a bus accident, our bus accident lawyer can help you defend yourself and your legal rights when a third party has been negligent. Schedule a consultation today by calling 281-347-3247 or filling out the online form.
Source:
ntsb.gov/Advocacy/safety-topics/Pages/schoolbuses.aspx
