Motor vehicle collisions are not just limited to a typical four wheel vehicle and can even involve much bigger vehicles, for example, a school bus. This is most certainly something that does not cross your mind as often as a typical car accident would. However, this is a possibility, and one that any motorist should be aware of, because there are certain factors to be attuned to in order to avoid or prepare for an unavoidable incident. Your legal team at Johnson & Alday, LLC will help you understand your rights, navigate the complexities of these cases, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Typically, school bus accidents occur during loading/unloading due to motorists ignoring stop-arms or children entering the 10 foot “danger zone” around the bus. There are many key safety factors that you should be aware of if you or your child is on a bus. If an accident does happen, a Marietta, GA personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue compensation.
The Danger Zone
The ten foot area around the bus (namely the front, back, and sides) is highly dangerous because if you cannot see the driver, they cannot see you. Avoiding these areas and staying extremely cautious when in contact with these areas is crucial.
Loading/Unloading Hazards
Most accidents happen in the afternoon when children are leaving school and getting off the bus; there are more vehicles on the road and more motorists to be aware of as well as more children and frequently stopping busses.
Wait for a Complete Stop
Never approach a moving bus; wait until it stops and the driver signals when getting on the bus. This can cause collisions with the bus itself or a pedestrian.
Crossing Safely
Always cross in front of the bus, never behind it. There is no way at all for the bus or for vehicles coming up towards the bus to see you if you are crossing behind it.
Safe Habits
Use the handrails, keep shoelaces tied, and remove dangling backpack straps or coat strings that catch on doors when utilizing the bus. It prevents accidents that could have been entirely avoidable.
The other side of bus incidents is when you are on the road yourself driving near or around a school bus. There are certain factors to remember as well as behaviors to avoid when encountering a school bus on the road.
Passing Stopped School Busses
It is illegal to pass a school bus with red lights flashing and the stop-arm extended. This is to keep you, the bus driver, and the children safe. There’s a reason it adds those points to your license; it very well could cost someone gravely.
Distractions
When driving near a school bus, always stay alert and avoid any and all distractions. Buses are difficult to navigate around and have many frequent stops. Stay aware of your surroundings to ensure that you aren’t paying attention to something else.
Blind Spots
Be aware of the bus’s blind spots, particularly very close to the back wheels, and keep a healthy following distance so the bus driver is aware of you and knows you are following behind. It could prevent an unnecessary fender bender or worse.