STS and Other School Bus Contracting Companies

How well do they train their staff? How good are their drivers?

We have seen recent injuries sustained as a result of careless school bus drivers.  One ran off the road with children on board while she was texting. Another school bus driver, returning to base after dropping children off at school, was distracted (texting?), crossed the center line, and crashed head-on into a small vehicle, causing significant injuries. It is possible that the woman in the small vehicle lost a finger or other digit.

What is the liability on the part of the bus company and what can be recovered by the injured individuals?

First, the injured party can look to their own automobile insurance policy for medical payments coverage so they can have prompt medical treatment with regardless of fault.  Thereafter, the bus company will surely investigate the matter and either deny liability, or the extent of injury in most cases. What is the monetary value of an injury anyway?

Medical bills, lost earnings, future treatment and rehabilitation are factors to consider.  Future lost earning capacity, pain, suffering, reduced enjoyment of life are additional considerations.  The legal process cannot take away the neck and back injuries for example. It cannot take away the lifetime of pain the victim may experience. All that can be awarded by the legal system is monetary compensation to provide for therapy, treatment, modalities that will make their life easier, and some monetary compensation to possibly provide the victim with peace of mind for her future.

When in a serious accident, we recommend that victims receive prompt medical treatment and then consult with a legal professional before meeting with an insurance company representative or agreeing to a tape recorded statement over the phone. If you are unable to seek help yourself, a family member could start the process on your behalf. Remember, the insurance company representing the faulty party is never on your side. Their job is to resolve claims in a cost effective way, and they are trained in numerous techniques that you may not even be aware of.  Seek medical treatment, learn about your rights from an attorney.

Articles contained here are not intended to provide legal advice, only providing general information. We encourage individuals to consult with an attorney regarding individual circumstances.