Steps to Take if Your Child Has Been Injured in a School Bus Accident in Ohio

Nobody wants to receive that dreaded phone call to let them know their child has been injured in a school bus accident. Unfortunately, these incidents do occur and it is our duty to provide the best possible solutions when they do.

Whether due to improper supervision or an automobile collision, a school bus accident can severely affect your child’s education and development. Contact our school bus accident lawyer now.

Here are some ways to avoid this unfortunate occurrence:

• Wait on the sidewalk for the bus to arrive and stop
• Look both ways before crossing in front of or behind a bus
• Once on the bus take a seat immediately to avoid falling
• Stay seated while the bus is moving
• Get onto the nearest sidewalk after exiting the bus

If a school bus accident does take place, there are a few important steps that you must follow:

Seek Medical Attention

It is important to seek medical attention for your child, no matter how minor the injury may be. Symptoms of certain undiagnosed injuries can take days to surface. In these types of situations, you can never be too cautious.

Document Everything

Obtain relevant records from the scene such as pictures, statements and contact information of everyone involved. When an accident happens, visual evidence is compelling especially if your case goes to trial. Also, make sure you collect information about your child regarding signs of physical pain, depression, nervousness, bad dreams or insomnia. It is important to chronicle your child’s recovery process but never state that their health is improving. Doing so could discredit your claim entirely.

Determine What Type of Incident Occurred

If you believe the adult employee is the offender, the school district could be liable for failing to conduct a proper background check. Whether the incident happens to be an automobile collision, improper supervision or any kind of abuse make sure to contact Heit Law for complete and accountable representation.

If the incident is related to bus operation, you must involve the auto insurance companies. Due to the short window of time, you must contact the insurance companies promptly. Without proper notification, you could miss the opportunity to claim the benefits of medical expenses and attendant care.

Collaborate with other Parents

Due to the nature of these incidents, it is commonplace for more than one child to be injured during the accident. Typically, parents involved are all going to seek similar legal action. Instead of taking the case to court and risking numerous high award amounts, the person responsible for the accident may try to settle with as many parents as possible.

Consider Liabilities

When it comes to transportation arrangements, the bus is either owned by the school district or the transportation company. Once ownership has been established, inquire about potential cameras on the bus and within the area of the accident to completely cover all aspects of what transpired.

It is the school’s obligation to ensure the safety of your child. If they break that breach of trust, it is your right to pursue compensation. To receive the justice you deserve and ensure all negligent parties are held accountable contact our Columbus personal injury lawyer today. You can reach us by phone at 614-898-5300, toll-free at 877-898-HEIT or via online inquiry or email.