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School Bus Accident Attorney Helping Victims of School Bus Accidents in Buffalo, Rochester and Long Island, New York
In the United States, more than 23 million children ride on school buses every day. Most children return home safely, however, accidents do happen. Injuries can range from bumps and bruises due to a slip and fall accident, to a tragic injury resulting from a child being struck by an oncoming vehicle.
In all 50 states, motorists are required to stop when school bus lights are flashing. Unfortunately, this law is not always obeyed. Police officers throughout the country have found drivers fail to obey this law, which may result in tragedy.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ("NHTSA") reports between 1995 and 2005, approximately 1,500 people lost their lives as a result of school bus-related accidents. Although a large majority of people killed were occupants of other vehicles, an average of 16 children are killed each year in school bus-related accidents. Most of the fatalities occurred to pedestrian children after school.
School bus accidents leave a lasting impression on any parent’s mind. We are reminded how important it is to promote school bus safety in the home. Here are a few safety tips to review with your children:
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Have a safe place to wait for your bus, away from traffic and the street.
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Stay away from the bus until it comes to a complete stop and the driver signals you to enter.
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When you exit the bus, walk at least ten steps away from the bus. This makes it a lot easier for the bus driver to see you.
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Use handrails to enter and exit the bus.
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Be aware of the traffic around you. Although drivers are required to obey traffic laws, they sometimes fail to do so. Protect yourself and be alert.
Another issue that commonly arises after a bus accident is whether seat belts should be required.
Some experts believe seat belts are not necessary mainly due to the sheer size and weight of a school bus. They also believe requiring the installation of seatbelts would only add a financial burden to many school districts. Other experts believe shoulder and lap belts would certainly limit the number of injuries and would save lives.
If your child has been injured in a school bus accident, we can help. Call us now at
1-800-483-2050 or click on a New York School Bus Accident Attorney.
Find the answers to some general auto questions...
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