Who is at Fault in a School Bus Accident - Iowa Law

Introduction to Bus Accidents

School bus accidents can be devastating for the children, parents, and community. An accident involving serious injuries or fatalities can affect someone for their entire life.

School bus crashes can occur due to various factors, including a negligent driver, mechanical failures, or even adverse road conditions.

Anyone who has been in a bus accident should obtain legal representation as soon as possible, as they can start the process of recovering compensation. To get compensation, however, fault must be determined. It might be the bus driver's fault, other motorists might have caused the accident, or even a private company, if a mechanical or other issue caused the accident.

The legal team at Tom Fowler Law has handled personal injury cases for years. Those who have been injured in a bus accident, even if they didn't sustain severe injuries, should reach out to a personal injury law firm to look over their legal options. They can also discuss who is at fault in a brake failure accident Iowa.

Causes of Bus Accidents

There are many causes of bus accidents. Here are some of the most common:

• Bus drivers may cause the school bus accident if they are driving distracted (texting), driving over the speed limit, don't come to a complete stop at a stop sign or light, or simply aren't following traffic laws.

• It's also possible that bus companies may be held responsible for the accident. This is usually the case if they fail to maintain the buses properly or if they hire drivers that are inexperienced.

• Other cars can cause a bus accident, too. For instance, if the other driver cuts the bus off, or if they are not following traffic laws around the bus, it's possible that passenger vehicles can cause the bus driver to lose control of the wheel and hit another vehicle or object.

• Adverse road conditions, including uneven pavement, potholes, ice, or snow may also create the risk of a bus accident.

• Pedestrians may cause accidents, too, as they may run in front of the bus or not be paying attention. Near a school, students walking near the bus may also cause the accident.

Bus Driver Liability - Distracted Driving and Driver Negligence

School bus drivers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their passengers. If they do not do this, they can be liable for bus accidents.

Driver negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving, can lead to serious injuries and fatalities. Bus drivers who don't have a lot of experience, or those who are inadequately trained, might also be more likely to be involved in bus accidents.

A top car accident attorney may be able to help victims of a bus accident determine if the bus driver's negligence was the cause of the accident.

Bus Company Responsibility

If the bus driver isn't liable, the bus company might be. A bus company has the duty to maintain the vehicles it owns, and ensure that they are safe for passengers. Failing to do this can increase the risk of a bus accident. Bus companies can also be responsible for an accident if they hire drivers who are not trained.

Following an accident, an investigation will be done to determine if the bus company holds any liability in the accident. If so, a lawsuit can be filed.

Bus Manufacturer Liability

Bus manufacturers may also be held liable for bus accidents if their vehicles are defective or malfunctioning. Defects in the design of the bus can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

It is the responsibility of the bus manufacturer to ensure that buses and other vehicles they build are safe for passengers and comply with safety standards.

A personal injury lawyer can help to determine if the bus manufacturer is responsible, and they will help their clients fight for their legal rights.

Government Agency Oversight

Many people don't realize that government agencies, including the school district, can be liable for bus accidents if they don't ensure that the buses are maintained and safe.

Government agencies are responsible for enforcing traffic laws and regulations. If they don't do this, it can contribute to bus accidents. It also falls on these agencies to ensure that bus drivers are trained and licensed to operate school buses.

If they fail to do this, they can take the blame and accident victims can sue the school district, city, or other government agency.

Child’s Injuries and Compensation

Children who are injured in a bus accident may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, emotional pain, and more. If they are of working age, they can also claim compensation for lost wages.

Compensation in these instances can help families pay for mounting medical bills or hospital bills if their child was hurt. It can also pay for mental health care if the child is suffering mentally.

A bus accident case is complicated. There are many common causes, and it can happen almost instantly. Many factors may come into play, and in order to build a strong case, a lot of evidence must be collected and organized.

An experienced personal injury attorney can help families navigate all of this, and then help them seek compensation for their child's injuries or mental trauma.

Proving Negligence in a Bus Accident Case

To prove negligence in a bus crash, it is essential to gather the necessary evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements. A bus accident lawyer can help with this process, and do investigations and gather evidence on behalf of their clients.

An experienced bus accident attorney understands that these cases may involve multiple parties, and they also know that any insurance company involved will do their best to pay as little as possible. This is why it's so important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible following an accident. They can also assist with explaining who is at fault in a school zone car accident Iowa.

Contact Tom Fowler Law for a Free Consultation Following a Bus Crash

Those who have been involved in a school bus accident need an experienced attorney at their side. If their loved one was injured or even killed, they have the right to fair compensation. Tom Fowler Law is a leading personal injury law firm in Des Moines, and the team is ready to start the process for any client who has been in a school bus accident. Free consultations are available. Call now!