According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), approximately 25 million school-aged children ride school buses in the United States, either to or from school or to or from other extracurricular activities. As a result, there are almost half a million buses that travel over 250 million miles a day. These vehicles carry our most precious cargo and for the most part are some of the safest vehicles.
In fact, school buses are specially designed with a “compartmentalization” technology, which is a protection system designed to make sure students stay safe. However, a recent report by the NTSB indicates that although school buses are some of the safest vehicles, the compartmentalization system is not enough to avoid all risk of injuries or death in a New Mexico school bus accident.
Crash simulations have shown that seat belts could prevent a significant number of serious injuries and death. When put this way, it is odd that seat belts are not mandatory on school buses. The NTSB has now recommended that school buses should have a three-point seat belt to ensure that if the school bus is involved in a crash, the impact will be mitigated because of the school bus’ design.
Who is Liable After a School Bus Accident?
In addition to the National Transportation Safety Board, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tracks school bus accidents in the United States. According to a nine-year report between 2006 and 2015, about 1,500 people died in a school bus-related accident. Although the number is quite low compared to total accidents around that same time, it still exemplifies the need for more safety measures across the board.
After a school bus accident, apportioning liability to the appropriate party can be difficult. There are many factors that come into play, including who was driving the school bus, where were the students being transported, and whether there is any issue of governmental immunity. If someone brings a lawsuit against a school bus driver or bus company in New Mexico, it is important that you contact an experienced attorney.
Students Injured After Tractor-Trailer Hits School Bus
According to a recent news report, a school bus carrying almost 50 students was side-swiped by a tractor-trailer. Apparently, the school bus was stopped at an intersection where the driver allowed a tractor-trailer to make a turn. The tractor-trailer seemed unable to navigate the turn properly and ended up side-swiping the school bus. Unfortunately, around four students, who were nine years old, were injured and had to be taken to a local children’s hospital. The bus did not appear to have significant damage, and the accident is still being investigated by police officials.
Have You or a Loved One Been Injured in a School Bus Accident?
If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident involving a school bus in New Mexico, you should contact the attorneys at the Fine Law Firm. New Mexico school bus accidents, as well as truck accidents, can be complex due to the various players involved. An attorney at the Fine Law Firm can help you navigate these issues and pursue the compensation you deserve. If you are successful, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries you or your loved one sustained. Contact one of the attorneys at the Fine Law Firm today at 800-640-6590 to schedule your free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Commercial Driver’s License Requirements and Mandatory Safety Regulations for New Mexico Truck Drivers, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, November 29, 2017.
Appellate Court Strikes Plaintiff’s Expert Reports, Granting Summary Judgment in Favor of Defendants, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, December 6, 2017.