Many children who live in the Valley travel to and from school by school bus every day. Parents rely on bus transportation to pick up their kids and transport them safely, without incident, so that the kids can further their learning. Most of the time, children are kept safe and sound while on a school bus.
But unfortunately, school bus accidents do occur in Phoenix on a regular basis. Some are due to the negligence of one of the drivers involved while others may be caused by unsafe bus procedures, poorly designed vehicles, or even a defect in a tire, as examples. Regardless of what caused preceded a bus collision, if negligence or recklessness played a role, those who are injured in the accident may be entitled to relief for their losses. This relief can be sought through the use of a civil claim and can enable a minor to recover for things like pain and suffering and permanency of injuries as well as actual expenses like medical and surgical bills. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer who handles claims on behalf of children and minors may help you understand your child’s rights and your rights if your child has been hurt in a bus accident.
An incident on Tuesday morning occurred that left a school bus damaged and at least one person hurt. Police were called to the scene of a collision in San Tan Valley between a school bus and a passenger car in an attempt to determine what occurred. Officials were able to determine that a car rear-ended a school bus in the morning and that the collision left the driver of the car in serious condition. Emergency crews attended to the driver, an 85-year-old woman, and transported her by air ambulance to Scottsdale Healthcare-Osborn for treatment. She is expected to survive.
Two children and a driver were on board the school bus at the time of the collision but none appeared to be injured in the collision. Police have not yet determined what caused the driver of the car to strike the bus and whether anyone involved in the crash acted in a negligent manner.
When children are involved in an accident, it can be difficult to understand who was responsible and whether the child has any legal options for relief. The laws in Phoenix are designed to help victims of accidents by holding those at-fault responsible for the expenses that result.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we know how scary it can be when a child is injured. We strive to help families understand their rights and we are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to discuss them. You can reach us toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191 and let us provide you with a free case consultation. There is no obligation on your part for speaking with us and everything discussed will remain confidential. If your child’s life has been changed by an accident, call us today and let us help you get the relief your family deserves.
Prior Blog Entry:
Hit-And-Run in Phoenix Leaves Pedestrian Dead, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published April 29, 2014.
Resource:
Driver hurt after rear-ending San Tan Valley school bus, by Steve Stout, CBS 5 Phoenix, published April 29, 2014.