Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog
Accidents tend to bring out the rawest emotions of anyone involved, especially when the crash involves large vehicles or young children. These types of Maryland auto accidents cause the most devastating consequences. Relative to other modes of transportation, school buses tend to be safe; however, it is not without their risks. In addition, Maryland injury lawsuits involving school buses pose unique challenges to claimants and their families.
School bus accidents can occur because of a variety of reasons. In some cases, the accident stems from inclement weather, poor road conditions, or defective vehicle parts. However, most crashes involve driver error and negligence. School bus drivers who fail to operate their vehicles safely put passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians at risk for serious injuries or death. In addition, other motorists who do not abide by traffic rules may put school bus occupants and children boarding or deboarding a bus at risk.
For example, authorities arrested an 87-year-old driver with vehicular manslaughter, gross negligence, and felony hit and run after colliding with a bus. According to reports, several students were on their way home after being dropped off at a bus stop when the driver rear-ended their school bus. The driver then slammed into a speed limit sign, and four of the children who were walking on the shoulder. Police report that there is no paved sidewalk near the bus stop. Three of the children suffered serious injuries, and one 9-year-old girl died.
Determining fault and liability is the most critical inquiry in any school bus accident lawsuit. These inquiries are rarely straightforward because many factors may have contributed to the victim’s injuries. While every case is different, some common liable parties after a Maryland school bus accident include:
- Bus drivers,
- School districts,
- Government entities,
- Private companies that provide school transportation,
- Negligent motorists, and
- Vehicle manufactures.
After establishing the cause of the accident, the victim must prove their damages. Those who suffered injuries in a school bus accident may recover damages related to their:
- Medical bills,
- Ongoing medical treatment,
- Surgeries,
- Home health care,
- Medication and medical devices,
- Pain and suffering,
- Emotional distress, and
- Funeral and burial expenses.
These accidents can leave victims and their families with monumental losses and uncertainty about the future. It is critical that individuals contact an experienced attorney to discuss their rights and remedies after an accident.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in a Maryland Bus Accident?
Under Maryland Law, the statute of limitations for a bus accident lawsuit is three years. This means that, in most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, before you bring a claim it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer to ensure you maximize your chance for recovering full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a Truck or Bus Accident
If you or someone you know is a victim of a Maryland school bus accident, contact the lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen for assistance. Injury victims may have a case for damages against the at-fault party. Our law firm handles Maryland accident cases stemming from truck accidents, school bus crashes, trip-and-falls, business place injuries, dog bites, defective products, medical negligence, and nursing home abuse and neglect. We provide support and guidance to our clients to help them make the best-informed decisions about their cases. In addition, our skilled attorneys represent clients through all stages of settlement and litigation, ensuring that they recover the damages the law entitles them. Contact our team at 800-654-1949 to schedule a free initial consultation with a lawyer at our office.