School bus accidents are every parent's worst nightmare. When a child is injured—or worse—in a school bus crash, the emotional toll is immeasurable. In the aftermath of such a traumatic event, it's critical that families understand their legal rights and the steps they can take to protect their children and seek justice.
At the Law Offices of Kenneth Berger, we help families navigate the legal complexities following school bus crashes. If your child was injured while riding the school bus, you have options under South Carolina law to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Who May Be Held Responsible After a School Bus Crash?
In South Carolina, several parties may be held liable depending on the circumstances of the crash:
- School District or County: If the district failed in its duty to hire properly trained drivers or maintain the buses, including tire maintenance, routine mechanical inspections, brake system checks, and electrical system checks.
- Bus Manufacturer or Maintenance Provider: In cases where mechanical failure—such as a blown tire—caused the school bus crash.
- Bus Driver: For negligence, distracted driving, or failing to follow safety protocols.
- Third-Party Drivers or Contractors: If another vehicle contributed to the crash or if transportation is outsourced.
Determining liability requires a detailed investigation, including accident reconstruction, review of maintenance logs, driver history, and more.
What Compensation May Be Available to Victims of a South Carolina School Bus Crash?
If your child was injured in a school bus crash, your family may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including ongoing treatment and rehabilitation)
- Emotional distress and psychological counseling
- Pain and suffering
- Future loss of income or earning potential (in severe injury cases)
- Wrongful death damages (if the accident was fatal)
Every case is unique, and an experienced personal injury attorney can help quantify these losses and negotiate a fair settlement or prepare for trial.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a South Carolina School Bus Accident?
In most personal injury cases in South Carolina, families have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against non-governmental defendants, like bus manufacturers or whoever was contracted to maintain the bus. However, claims against government entities, such as a school district, must be filed within two years.
Failing to act in time could jeopardize your family's ability to pursue justice. That's why it's essential to contact an experienced school bus crash attorney as soon as possible.
How Our Child Injury Law Firm Can Help
Our firm approaches each case with the care and respect we would want for our own families. We focus on:
- Conducting independent investigations
- Preserving critical evidence early
- Communicating regularly and transparently with clients
- Working to achieve full justice and full, fair financial recovery with compassion and integrity
We are here not only as legal advocates but also as allies who understand the grief and confusion that follow a school bus accident.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation After a South Carolina School Bus Accident
If your child or a loved one was involved in a school bus accident in South Carolina, we’re here to help you understand your options and fight for the justice your family deserves.
Request a free case evaluation today by:
- Calling us at (803) 790-2800 or (843) 427-2800.
- Filling out the contact form at the bottom of this page.
- Reaching out to us through the live chat at the bottom corner of this page.
You’re not alone. Let us help you move forward with strength and support.
