According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school buses are one of the safest forms of transportation for children – and certainly an indispensable service for thousands of families across the US. While the NHTSA reports that children are 70 times more likely to safely get to school when taking a bus versus a car, school bus accidents do occur, and when they do, they can result in serious injuries or even fatalities.
This article explores the facts surrounding school bus accidents, especially in Colorado and Utah, and the critical steps parents should take if their child is injured in an accident.
The Reality of School Bus Accidents
While school bus accidents are relatively rare compared to other types of vehicular accidents, they do occur with enough frequency to note concern. According to the NHTSA, from 2013 to 2022, there were 1,080 fatalities in school transportation-related crashes. Of these, 71% were occupants of other vehicles, while 16% were pedestrians, 3% were pedal cyclists, and 9% were school bus occupants.
Injuries were much higher in number. Between 2013 and 2022, there were 132,000 injuries from school bus accidents, although latter years show much fewer injuries than earlier ones. Of these, 45% were school bus passengers or drivers, and 51% were occupants of other vehicles.
For Colorado and Utah, recent cases demonstrate the various factors that can contribute to accidents and underscore the importance of understanding the legal options available to affected families.
Recent School Bus Accidents in Colorado and Utah
Colorado School Bus Accidents
In Colorado, school bus accidents have been a significant concern due to the state's mountainous terrain and rapidly changing weather conditions.
For instance, in March 2023, a school bus accident in Colorado Springs made headlines when a bus carrying 25 students skidded off the road and hit a tree due to icy conditions. Fortunately, no severe injuries were reported, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by adverse weather.
In December of that year, however, a school bus collided with a semi-truck in Fort Morgan, resulting in injuries to four students and the driver. It was determined that the school bus driver was at fault. More recently, in 2024, a school bus in Brighton was rear-ended by a vehicle, resulting in injuries to more than a dozen students as well as the driver of the car.
Utah School Bus Accidents
Utah has also seen its share of school bus accidents. In 2021, an accident took place near Salt Lake City, when a semi-truck collided with a school bus. One student was injured and sent to the hospital.
Just recently, in August of this year, a garbage truck ran into a school bus carrying students to a soccer game in Spanish Fork. Three girls were taken to the hospital due to injuries.
Why Do School Bus Accidents Happen?
Understanding why school bus accidents occur is crucial in preventing future incidents and ensuring the safety of children. The consequences can be severe, given the size and weight of school buses and the vulnerability of young passengers.
Several factors contribute to these accidents, including:
- Driver Error: Whether it's the school bus driver or another motorist, human error is a leading cause of school bus accidents. This can include distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Weather Conditions: Colorado and Utah are known for unpredictable weather, particularly in the winter months. Snow, ice, and fog can create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Mechanical Failures: School buses, like any other vehicle, are susceptible to mechanical failures. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine malfunctions can lead to accidents, especially if the bus has not been properly maintained.
- Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, construction zones, and limited visibility can all contribute to school bus accidents. In some cases, local governments may be held accountable for failing to address dangerous road conditions.
Steps to Take If Your Child Is Injured in a School Bus Accident
If your child has been injured in a school bus accident, it's natural to feel overwhelmed by emotions and unsure of what to do. However, taking the right steps immediately following the accident can make a significant difference in protecting your child's rights, ensuring they receive the care they need and the compensation they deserve.
Seek Medical Attention:
The first and most important step is to seek medical attention for your child, even if they do not appear to be seriously injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a thorough medical examination can help identify any issues early on.
Document the Accident:
Gather as much information as possible about the accident. This includes taking photos of the scene, obtaining contact information from witnesses, and noting any relevant details about the bus, the driver, and the road conditions.
Report the Accident:
Report the accident to the appropriate authorities, including the school district and local law enforcement. Ensure that an official report is filed as this will be crucial in any subsequent legal proceedings.
Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney:
School bus accidents can be legally complex, involving multiple parties such as the school district, the bus driver, other motorists, and even government entities. Consulting with a personal injury attorney who has experience handling difficult cases is essential.
A qualified attorney can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Understand Your Legal Rights:
It's important to understand your legal rights as a parent or guardian. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. Your attorney can advise you on the best course of action based on the specifics of your case.
Consider Long-Term Care:
If your child has sustained serious injuries, consider the possibility of long-term care needs. This may include physical therapy, counseling, or other medical treatments. Ensure that any settlement or legal action accounts for these future expenses.
Stay Informed:
Keep track of any developments related to the accident, such as changes in your child's condition, communication from the school district, or updates from your attorney. Staying informed will help you make the best decisions for your child.
An Ally in Protecting Your Child’s Well-Being
School bus accidents, though relatively rare, can have profound and lasting impacts on the lives of children and their families. Understanding the causes of these accidents and the legal steps to take in their aftermath is crucial for protecting your child's rights and ensuring they receive excellent care.
If your child has been injured in a school bus accident involving a car or truck, consulting with an experienced personal injury law firm like Veritas Injury Lawyers is the most important step in navigating the complexities of the legal system and pursuing the justice your family deserves.
Our compassionate accident attorneys have the experience, integrity, and knowledge to ensure the optimal outcome for your case and see that your child receives the best possible health care.
Our results speak for themselves. We’re proud that our clients not only speak to the positive outcomes of their cases but also to the quality and manner in which they were conducted.
Veritas Injury Lawyers offers convenient appointment times and free consultations, so don’t hesitate. By taking prompt action and seeking professional legal guidance, you can help ensure that your child's future is protected and that those responsible for the accident are held accountable.
Speak with an attorney today.
(For tips on school bus safety, read this article from the NHTSA.)
