School bus injuries result from several different causes. Most full-size school buses are not equipped with seat belts, thereby exposing children to a greater risk of harm. With the severe budgetary pressures facing many school districts, bus maintenance schedules get stretched, vehicles are kept in service for longer periods of time, and many districts seek to save costs by using lower paid and less experienced bus drivers. These factors can also lead to school bus injuries.

What to do if you are involved in a bus accident:

	Get Medical Attention.
		This is extremely important, because some injuries may not be immediately apparent at the time of the accident.  Seeking medical attention will give you a better idea of the extent of your injuries.
	Contact the Authorities.
		The authorities will not only help to organize the situation, but they will also write a report.  This is useful in determining who was at-fault for the accident and will be helpful in supporting your claim.
	Obtain Contact Information.
		•	Be sure to obtain the names, addresses, and phone numbers of the bus driver and the bus company, as well as any passengers or witnesses to the accident.
		•	Write down the driver’s license number of the driver and the license plate number of the bus.  Write down any other information on the bus that might help to identify it.
		•	Also, write down registration information from the bus and any names or contact information affiliated with the company that owns the bus.
		•	Note insurance company contact information and policy numbers from the bus.
		•	Obtain the names of authorities’ that responded to the scene.
	Make a note of the following information
		•	Location of the accident and any road conditions that could have caused the accident.
		•	How the accident occurred.
		•	All injuries that were announced at the scene.
		•	Any damage that has occurred immediately, and if you have a camera, take photos of any vehicle damage and the scene of the accident.
		•	Any information regarding the bus driver’s history or training.
		•	Whether the bus driver appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
		•	Whether someone admitted fault for the accident. While it is important to always note if someone else admits fault, NEVER admit fault of your own.