School Bus Accidents

School bus accidents are a parent's worst nightmare. While school buses are generally considered one of the safest modes of transportation, accidents can and do happen. In Massachusetts, under personal injury law, claims involving school bus accidents can be complex and require the expertise of an experienced personal injury attorney. At Bellotti Law Group, P.C., our team of dedicated attorneys is prepared to help you navigate these claims and secure the compensation you deserve.

School bus accidents may involve various scenarios, such as collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects, or incidents that occur inside the bus.

The responsible party could be the school bus driver, another motorist, the bus manufacturer, or even the school district. Determining liability in these personal injury cases is crucial to ensuring that the injured party receives fair compensation.

Massachusetts follows a no-fault car insurance system, which means that each driver's insurance company covers their policyholder's injuries and property damage up to a certain limit, regardless of fault.

However, for injuries resulting from a school bus accident, one can pursue a personal injury claim if the damages exceed the no-fault coverage limits. In Massachusetts, when a victim's injuries from an accident exceed the Personal Injury Protection (PIP) limits of the no-fault insurance system, they may pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party if the "tort threshold" criteria are met.

These criteria include medical expenses over $2,000, fractures or broken bones, permanent and serious disfigurement, loss of a body part, or significant loss of hearing or sight. Meeting the tort threshold allows the injured party to seek compensation for damages not covered by PIP, including medical expenses and lost wages exceeding the PIP limits, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. It is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to determine if your case qualifies for a personal injury claim.

The personal injury claims process for school bus accidents in Massachusetts involves several steps. First, the injured individual should seek medical attention for their injuries. It is crucial for injured person to document any medical treatment received, as this will be necessary to support the personal injury claim.

Next, the injured individual or their attorney should investigate the accident to determine who is at fault. In some cases, the school bus driver may be responsible for the accident. In other cases, the school district or bus company may be liable.

The injured individual or their attorney should gather evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, and photos of the accident scene, to support the personal injury claim filed.

After determining liability, the injured individual or their attorney should file a personal injury claim with the at-fault party's insurance company. The claim should include documentation of medical expenses, lost wages, and any other damages resulting from the accident.

The insurance company will investigate the claim and may offer a settlement to the injured individual. If a settlement cannot be reached, the injured individual may have a legal duty to file a lawsuit and take the case to court.

In Massachusetts, personal injury claims are based on the principle of negligence. To establish a successful claim, the lawyer for the injured party must prove four elements:

1. Duty of care: The defendant (the person or entity being sued) owed a duty of care to the injured party (the plaintiff).
2. Breach of duty: The defendant breached that duty by failing to exercise reasonable care.
3. Causation: The defendant's breach caused the plaintiff's injury.
4. Damages: The plaintiff suffered damages as a result of the injury.

In the context of school bus accidents, potential defendants may include the bus driver, the school district, a private bus company, or even another motorist involved in the accident.

A thorough investigation is necessary to determine the cause of the accident and identify the responsible parties.

Victims of school bus accidents in Massachusetts can seek compensation for a variety of damages resulting from the accident. These damages may include:

1. Medical expenses: Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation.
2. Future medical expenses: If the injuries require ongoing medical care, victims can also seek compensation for future medical expenses.
3. Lost wages: If the injured party is unable to work due to their injuries, they may be compensated for lost wages.
4. Loss of earning capacity: In cases where the injuries permanently affect the victim's ability to work, they may be entitled to compensation for their diminished earning capacity.
5. Pain and suffering: Victims may be compensated for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
6. Loss of consortium: In some cases, an accident may result in a wrongful death. The victim's spouse or family members may be entitled to compensation for the loss of companionship, love, and support resulting from the accident.

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, when the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations is tolled until the minor reaches the age of 18. It is crucial to file a claim within the statute of limitations to preserve the right to seek compensation.

When it comes to a personal injury case and navigating the complexities of a Massachusetts personal injury claim involving a school bus accident, our attorneys have years of experience handling personal injury claims, including those involving bus accidents. We will conduct a comprehensive investigation of the accident, gathering evidence, and work with experts to determine liability and the extent of damages.

We understand the emotional and financial toll that a school bus accident can have on you and your family. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate representation and support throughout the legal process. Our track record of success speaks for itself. We have helped numerous clients obtain the monetary compensation they deserve, allowing them to focus on healing and recovery.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a school bus accident in Massachusetts, don't hesitate to contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Bellotti Law Group, P.C. We will guide you through the process of filing a personal injury claim and ensure that your rights are protected. Call us today a free, no-obligation consultation.