What to Do After a Car Accident When a School Bus is Responsible

Collisions involving school buses can be especially challenging because they involve several parties. It’s critical to understand what to do straight away following an occurrence in order to protect your rights and obtain just compensation. 

In this article, we’ll provide steps for handling accidents where a school bus is at fault, covering scene actions and legal issues. You can focus on your recovery and skillfully handle the situation’s complications by adhering to these guidelines.

Immediate Actions at the Scene

If you’re involved in an accident with a school bus, your priority should be safety. Ensure that everyone involved is out of immediate danger and, if required, reach out to emergency services for assistance. If possible, move yourself to a secure area. Assess for injuries among all individuals, including those on the bus.  

Collect crucial information such as the bus driver’s details and witness statements. Take clear photos of the scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. Cooperate with the police but avoid discussing fault. Focus on safety and thorough documentation to support your case later.

FindLaw suggests immediately taking photos from multiple angles of the scene, including visible injuries and property damage. Document skid marks, witness statements, and the other driver’s details. Collect medical records, repair estimates, and the police report. If possible, secure CCTV footage from nearby cameras. Effective evidence collection supports your personal injury claim and strengthens your case.

What steps should I take if I am injured and unable to move following the accident?

If you are injured and immobile after an accident, remain still to avoid aggravating potential fractures or spinal injuries. Call for emergency medical assistance immediately. If there is bleeding, apply pressure around the wound without disturbing any protruding bones. Immobilize the affected area until help arrives.

Documenting the Accident

Start by recording the bus’s license plate and the company’s contact information. Take clear pictures of the accident scene showing the positions and damage of the vehicles as well as the state of the road.

Gather contact information from witnesses and police officers. Take notes on the accident scene’s lighting and weather. To ensure you have a complete record of your claim, hold onto copies of all relevant documents, such as the police report and medical records. 

The Virginia DMV allows you to get a crash report by submitting an Information Request Form or a written request. Include details such as your involvement in the crash, date, time, location, and the driver’s name. Reports can be obtained for $8, and payments can be made via credit card, money order, or check. Send in your request in person, via fax, or by mail.

How can I get a copy of the police report, and what should I do if I face challenges in obtaining it?

To get a copy of the police report, reach out to the local police department or utilize their online request system. Provide details such as the accident date, report number, and your identification. If you have trouble getting the report, seek help from your insurance company or an attorney to expedite the process.

Handling Insurance Claims

When filing an insurance claim after a school bus accident, notify your insurer as soon as possible. Give all the information that is required, such as the repair estimates, police report, and medical documents. 

To guarantee that your claim is handled correctly, collaborate closely with your insurance adjuster. It is advisable to seek legal advice to assist with discussions and guarantee just compensation, as the claims process can be intricate.

Progressive notes that car accident insurance claim settlements can vary from days to months, depending on severity and claim complexity. The insurer typically has 30 days to investigate the claim. Factors like multiple injuries or disputed faults can extend this period. You might receive payments in stages, such as for rental reimbursement before bodily injury.

Legal Considerations

Liability in school bus accidents may involve the bus driver, the school district, or both. Consulting a personal injury lawyer is crucial for reviewing your case and guiding you through the legal process. They assist with evidence collection, settlement negotiations, and ensuring all legal deadlines are met to protect your rights. 

Consider a recent incident in Edwardsville, IL, on April 22, 2024, as detailed by RiverBender. According to Illinois State Police Troop 8, a collision took place between two passenger cars and a school bus. 

The accident happened at Illinois Route 159 and Tranquility Ridge Road in Madison County. The bus, which was fully occupied, reported no injuries. Meanwhile, the occupants of the Acura were taken to the hospital, and there were no injuries reported in the GMC.

School bus accidents often involve complex legal issues, such as determining liability between the bus driver and the school district. In the aforementioned instance, working with a local Edwardsville personal injury attorney is crucial to overcoming these obstacles. A knowledgeable lawyer will determine who is at fault, make sure the law is obeyed, and fight to get just recompense.

According to TorHoerman Law, negotiating with insurance companies requires skill and strategic planning, which is effectively managed by a knowledgeable attorney. They defend your rights and ensure efficient handling of the legal process.

Medical Attention and Follow-Up

Seek medical attention immediately after the accident, even if your injuries seem minor, as some problems may not be immediately visible. Make sure you follow up with your healthcare practitioner for a complete assessment and take any recommended medications as directed. 

Maintaining regular medical attention is essential to both your healing process and accurately recording the effects of the accident on your health. This detailed documentation supports your case in legal or insurance claims, ensuring you receive the compensation needed for any ongoing medical issues.

How can I document ongoing health issues related to the accident?

Document ongoing health issues by keeping a detailed journal of your symptoms and treatments. Regularly update your medical records and secure copies of all diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up visits. Note how the accident impacts your daily life. This detailed documentation will support your insurance claim and help track your recovery progress.

Communicating with School Authorities

After a school bus accident, quickly contact school authorities to address safety, liability, and procedural matters. Provide your contact details, a comprehensive summary of the incident, and request information about the bus driver and the school’s insurance coverage. 

Keeping detailed records of all communications is essential to ensure your concerns are addressed thoroughly. These records will be crucial in the claims process, aiding in securing fair compensation and ensuring proper management of safety and liability issues.

Navigating a School Bus Accident

Handling an accident involving a school bus involves critical steps, from immediate actions at the scene to managing insurance and legal matters. Navigating the complexity of the problem requires thorough documentation and efficient communication. 

By following this guide, you can protect your interests, address any issues with the school, and focus on your recovery. Engaging with medical and legal professionals ensures you receive care and support while advocating for fair compensation and accountability throughout the process.