If you are involved in a bus accident, take immediate steps to ensure your safety, the safety of others, and protect your legal rights. Whether you’re a motorist hit by a school bus, or you’re filing a bus passenger accident claim, here are some steps to take if you’re in a bus accident:
Check for injuries and move to a safe location
First and foremost, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 or the emergency services in your area immediately.
If it’s safe to do so, move away from the bus accident scene to a safe location, especially if the bus is blocking traffic or in a dangerous position.
Report the accident to local law enforcement
Call the police to report the bus collision and wait for an officer to arrive at the scene. They will create an official accident report, which will likely include:
- The date, time, and location of the crash
- Names, vehicle information, and insurance details of the parties involved
- A description of road and/or traffic conditions
- Statements from witnesses, passengers, and drivers
- Citations and arrests (if there are any)
- A diagram of the accident scene
Exchange information
While waiting for a police officer to arrive, exchange contact and insurance information with the bus driver, other drivers involved, and any witnesses. Gather names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance details. It's also helpful to take notes about the make, model, and color of the other vehicles involved.
Document the crash scene
If you’re able to, take photographs or videos of the bus accident scene, including the position of vehicles, damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and signage. Also, consider taking notes of the accident scene details, including:
- The road conditions
- Damage to vehicles or nearby structures
- Locations of surveillance cameras
- Statements and contact information of witnesses
Seek medical attention
Even if you don’t believe you’re seriously injured, it's important to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can manifest later. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help in the documentation of injuries.
Plus, a timely diagnosis can help establish a clear link between your injuries and the bus accident you were involved in.
Notify your insurance company
Report the school bus accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all relevant information, including the police report and contact details of other parties involved.
Be careful not to discuss fault or blame. Anything you say to insurance companies (even your own) can have an impact on the outcome of your claim. It’s best to stick to the facts and only provide the date, time, location, parties involved, and any injuries sustained.
Consult with a school bus accident lawyer
If you’re involved in a school bus accident, consult with a lawyer to learn about your rights and options for seeking compensation. A school bus accident lawyer who fully understands the law can guide you in the right direction and handle all aspects of your claim from start to finish.
Follow all recommendations
Your activity while pursuing a claim after a school bus accident can affect your ability to recover damages. For the best possible outcome, adhere to the recommendations offered by your lawyer and your doctor. That includes:
- Attending all medical appointments
- Avoiding activities that can worsen or disprove your injury
- Avoiding social media posts that discuss your school bus accident
- Refraining from providing recorded statements to the at-fault party’s insurance company
