A school bus carries precious cargo, but unfortunately, that does not mean it always avoids getting into an accident. When your kid suffers an injury as a result of the accident, then who is legally responsible for it? Which party will provide for your child, so that they meet medical expenses and other costs? Read on to discover how the things around the accident can decide responsibility for that kid’s injuries.
Determining Responsibility
An experienced and skilled bus accident attorney can help the victim find out which party may be responsible for the injuries. Identifying an at-fault party tends to require considering various factors, starting with the things around this accident itself. Attorneys, the police, and claims adjusters usually look at a few of the below-mentioned details to identify responsible parties.
The Place and Time in Which the Accident Happened
If a bus was traveling along its normal course, this may indicate that somebody except its driver is to blame. On the contrary, if it was on unknown roads, the poor calls of the driver may have had a bigger role to play in the accident. The road condition may be a contributing factor as well.
Whether There Were Other Automobiles Involved
An accident involving just the bus often points to the bus condition or driver as the possible culprit. One involving other automobiles may indicate that those motorists, or the state of their autos, played a part.
Whether There Was Alcohol or Drugs Involved
Rarely, people consume alcohol or illegal drugs before they drive the bus, which indicates that they or their employer was at fault for the consequent accident. However, almost every driver is a responsible individual who cares for the students’ safety. That said, the side effects of medication, and drug interactions make one temporarily not fit to drive the bus.
Whether Safety Measures Were Followed
When the school does not enforce safety regulations on buses, or when it overloads these vehicles, the injuries of their students may stem from the former’s practices and policies.
Whether the Bus Malfunctioned
If the school bus driver reports their brakes failed, then an avoidable mechanical malfunction may be to blame. If so, the bus producer or its components’ manufacturer may face responsibility for the concerned students’ injuries. The best way to look into liability matters is to work with a lawyer.