According to data analysis from the National Safety Council (NSC), approximately 13,000 people were injured in school bus accidents in 2018. While the school bus drivers and occupants account for thousands of these injuries, the vast majority of the injured parties were occupants of other vehicles.

Due to the sheer size and weight of school busses, the results of these accidents can be devastating, ultimately affecting every aspect of a victim’s life. Thankfully, if you have suffered injuries in such an accident, you may be entitled to compensation.

Here at Distasio Law Firm, we will fight to hold negligent drivers and their employers responsible when they put you in harm’s way. If you hire a Tampa school bus accident lawyer at our law firm, we can be there to fight for your rights so you can recover in peace. You do not have to go through this legal battle alone. Our team of bus accident attorneys can be there to stand up for you from start to finish.

For more information about our school bus accident legal services at Distasio Law Firm, contact a representative today and get started with your free consultation.

Recovering Damages After a School Bus Accident

Compared to regular car accidents, school bus accidents are more complicated because they often involve schools that receive funding from the local and state government. These organizations may go out of their way to disprove your version of events so they can avoid any potential scandals and financial compensation.

When you file a claim against an employee, company, or government organization after a school bus crash in Tampa, you may a diligent attorney could help you collect compensation for the pain and suffering you have had to endure.

You may be eligible to recover many different types of damages. We can help you seek damages that reflect the unique economic and non-economic hardships you have faced since the accident occurred. In addition to the losses you have currently sustained, you may receive compensation for your future losses, including lost income and additional medical expenses.

Overall, recoverable damages may include the following:

  • Expenses related to medical treatments, physical therapy, and hospitalizations
  • Loss of income and benefits
  • Diminished earning potential
  • Property damage
  • General suffering
  • Mental anguish, including psychological conditions you developed due to the collision
  • Loss of consortium or quality of life
  • And more

Common Causes of School Bus Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school busses are some of the most heavily regulated and safest vehicles on the road. Yet, some school bus accidents happen because of inexperienced, careless, or preoccupied school bus drivers. Even when drivers operate these vehicles correctly, accidents can occur because of environmental and mechanical factors.

The following are common causes of school bus accidents:

  • Driving too fast for weather conditions
  • Failure to check mirrors before backing up
  • Speeding through school zones or residential areas
  • Obstructed vision
  • Brake failure
  • Failure to use warning signals before stopping to release passengers
  • Distractions from the passengers aboard the bus
  • Turning too widely
  • Driving while fatigued
  • Objects thrown from the bus while it is in motion
  • Following too closely
  • Failure to yield

Even if you know what caused your accident, it may be difficult to prove your version of events to a judge or insurance company. When you choose an experienced Tampa school bus accident attorney at Distasio Law Firm, we can be there to build your case and help you prove liability. During our quest to reveal the truth, our firm can use forensic evidence, police reports, cell phone records, expert witnesses, and more to support your claim.

To learn more about proving liability in school bus accidents, contact a Distasio Law Firm lawyer in Tampa today and receive your free consultation.

Common Injuries from School Bus Accidents

School busses can overpower even the largest car, SUV, or pickup truck. Accidents involving school buses can cause life-threatening injuries, even when they occur at low speeds. It is important that you start documenting your injuries shortly after your accident so we can factor them into your case value.

Common injuries from school bus wrecks include the following:

A Tampa School Bus Accident Attorney Could Fight for Your Rights

When you have a Tampa school bus accident lawyer in your corner, you can rest assured that a legal professional is fighting for your rights. For over 27 years, Distasio Law Firm has been there to fight for victims of negligent drivers. Our team can help answer your questions during your free consultation.

From gathering evidence and negotiating settlements to civil litigation and beyond, Distasio Law Firm is here to provide legal services that match your unique needs. Beyond investigating and building your case, we will also review relevant statutes and how they may apply.

For example, you should note that you only have a limited amount of time to take legal action after a school bus accident. Generally, states require you to file a claim within a set amount of years of your accident. However, if you want to file a claim against a city, county, or state government organization, this time limit may be even shorter.

To learn more about your legal options after a negligent school bus accident, contact a Distasio Law Firm representative today. When you call, you will receive your free consultation.

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Our main office is here in Downtown Tampa, Florida in the Channelside neighborhood. Office in Wesley Chapel and Largo are available by appointment only.

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