School Bus Accident Attorneys in Baltimore, Maryland

School bus accidents are one of the most heartbreaking and distressing events a family can experience. As parents and guardians, we want to make sure our children are safe during their everyday routines, and when accidents happen, it can leave families feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next.

Our experienced school bus accident attorneys at Baltimore Accident Center are dedicated to helping you work through the legal process, seeking justice and compensation for your child’s injuries in Baltimore, Maryland. 

We're here to support you every step of the way so you can focus on your child’s recovery while we fight for justice. Don't hesitate to reach out to our personal injury firm today to schedule a free consultation.

What Causes School Bus Accidents?

School bus accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Baltimore’s dense traffic, coupled with busy streets, can increase the likelihood of accidents. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted driving: Drivers, whether they're in vehicles approaching or driving behind the school bus, often fail to pay attention to the surrounding environment. Mobile phone use, eating, or simply not focusing on the road can lead to dangerous situations for children getting on or off the bus.

• Failure to obey traffic laws: Baltimore, like many cities, has strict traffic laws designed to protect children when they're boarding or exiting the school bus. For example, when a school bus stops to pick up or drop off children, all vehicles are required to stop. Sadly, some drivers ignore these laws, creating a risk for children who may be crossing the street or walking near the bus. This kind of negligence can lead to serious accidents.

• Weather conditions: Inclement weather, such as rain, snow, or ice, can also contribute to school bus accidents. Baltimore experiences all four seasons, and during winter, roads can be slippery, and visibility can be reduced. Drivers may struggle to stop or slow down in these conditions, which increases the risk of collisions.

• Bus driver error: While bus drivers are highly trained professionals, they aren't immune to making mistakes. Fatigue, inattention, or a lack of experience can lead to accidents. In some cases, bus drivers may fail to notice a child crossing the street or may make an unsafe turn that puts children in harm’s way.

• Vehicle maintenance issues: Although school buses are generally well-maintained, mechanical failures can still occur. If a bus experiences brake failure or a tire blowout, the potential for an accident rises significantly.

• Inadequate supervision: The safety of children on a school bus is often the responsibility of the bus driver, but in some cases, the absence of a bus monitor or improper supervision of children can lead to accidents. When children aren’t properly seated or are engaging in risky behavior, it can increase the likelihood of falls or injuries during an accident.

Knowing what causes school bus accidents shows how important it is to have caring school bus accident attorneys who can help families like yours through these challenging times and make sure your child's safety is taken seriously.

How Might a School Bus Accident Impact My Child?

The consequences of a school bus accident are far-reaching. While some children may escape with only minor injuries, others may face long-term physical challenges. Some of these injuries and potential long-term effects may include:

• Head injuries: Head injuries are among the most common injuries in school bus accidents. These injuries can range from concussions to more severe trauma, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI). A TBI can have a profound impact on a child’s cognitive development, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life. In the most severe cases, head injuries may require lifelong care and assistance.

• Neck and spinal cord injuries: Whiplash and other neck injuries are also common in school bus accidents. In some instances, these injuries can lead to permanent paralysis or loss of motor function. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive treatment, including surgery, physical therapy, and possibly long-term rehabilitation. Children may need assistive devices or home modifications to accommodate their new needs.

• Broken bones: The force of a collision can lead to broken bones in children, especially if they're thrown from their seat or thrown against the interior of the bus. Fractures to the arms, legs, and even the pelvis are common. Broken bones may require surgery and a prolonged recovery period, during which the child may be unable to participate in normal activities like school or sports.

• Psychological effects: As previously mentioned, the psychological consequences of a school bus accident can be just as significant as physical injuries. Children who witness or experience traumatic events may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms can include nightmares, flashbacks, irritability, and anxiety, and these effects may persist long after the physical injuries have healed.

• Emotional strain on families: Families of children injured in school bus accidents often experience immense emotional strain. Parents may feel helpless as they watch their child struggle with physical and emotional pain. The added stress of managing medical appointments, school accommodations, and financial burdens can create feelings of isolation and exhaustion.

The impact of a school bus accident can extend far beyond the physical injuries, affecting not only the child’s well-being but also the emotional and psychological health of the entire family, making it crucial to seek medical support as well as legal support from experienced school bus accident attorneys.

How Should I Handle the Aftermath of a School Bus Accident?

After an accident, it’s important to take several immediate steps to make sure your child receives the care they need and to protect your legal rights. Here are a few things you can do proactively.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Whether your child appears to be injured or not, it’s crucial to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, especially head and neck injuries, may not show immediate symptoms. A doctor will be able to properly assess their condition and begin the necessary treatment.

Document the Scene and Gather Information

If you're able to, take photos of the accident scene, including the position of the bus, the surrounding traffic, and any visible injuries. 

Gather contact information for witnesses, including their names, phone numbers, and statements about what they saw. Also, make sure to get the school bus driver’s details, such as their name, bus number, and insurance information.

Notify the School District

It’s important to inform the school district about the accident as soon as possible. This will initiate an investigation and can help to clarify what happened during the incident. Be sure to keep records of all communications you have with school officials and the transportation department.

Consult With School Bus Accident Attorneys

The legal process following a school bus accident can be complicated. Attorney E. Gregory Watson and Attorney Stephanie D. Moran can help you work through your insurance claims, gather necessary evidence, and help you fight for your child's compensation.

We can also help to advocate on your behalf when dealing with insurance companies or the school district so you can focus on helping your child heal.

Taking these steps after an accident will help to make sure that your child’s immediate and long-term needs are addressed while protecting your family’s rights.