New York’s Alarming Fatal School Bus Crash Record

Understanding the Risks, the Law, and How Families Can Seek Justice After Tragic Bus Accidents

A recent nationwide study has revealed a troubling fact: New York ranks fourth in the United States for fatal school bus crashes between 2013 and 2022. During this period, the state recorded 59 deadly incidents, resulting in 59 lives lost. This figure places New York behind only Texas, Florida, and Georgia. These crashes have left families grieving and communities searching for answers.

While school buses are statistically one of the safest forms of transportation, the sheer size of these vehicles means that when accidents do occur, they can be devastating. Victims can include bus passengers, drivers, and pedestrians. For families, the aftermath involves not only emotional trauma but also significant financial burdens.

Where and Why Fatal School Bus Crashes Happen in New York

The study identified Kings County as having one of the highest fatal bus crash rates in the nation, tying with Texas’ Harris County for 11 fatal crashes. While rural areas often see incidents related to higher speeds and longer travel distances, urban regions face hazards from congestion, reckless driving, and driver inattention.

Contributing factors to these tragedies can include driver negligence, inadequate maintenance, defective vehicle parts, unsafe road design, and failure to enforce seat belt usage. New York law requires seat belts on buses made after 1987, but whether students must wear them is left to each school district. This inconsistency may leave passengers more vulnerable in collisions.

Legal Rights After a Fatal School Bus Accident

When negligence or wrongful conduct causes a fatal bus crash, surviving family members may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Claims can seek compensation for funeral costs, lost future income, medical bills, and loss of companionship. In cases of extreme negligence—such as impaired driving—punitive damages may also be available.

These lawsuits also serve a broader purpose by holding negligent parties accountable, pressuring transportation providers to adopt stronger safety measures, and prompting legislative change to protect future passengers.

New York Bus Accident FAQs

1. Who can be held liable in a fatal school bus crash? Liability may fall on multiple parties, including the bus driver, the school district, private bus companies, maintenance contractors, or even manufacturers of defective parts. An attorney will investigate to determine all potentially responsible parties.
2. Do school districts have immunity from lawsuits? While public entities have certain protections, they can still be sued for negligence under New York law. However, strict notice and filing deadlines apply when bringing claims against government bodies.
3. What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death bus crash case? Compensation can include funeral and burial expenses, lost financial support, medical costs from the accident, and damages for the emotional suffering of surviving family members.
4. Is there a deadline to file a wrongful death claim in New York? Yes. Most wrongful death claims in New York must be filed within two years of the victim’s death. When a public entity is involved, a Notice of Claim must generally be filed within 90 days.
5. Can families pursue claims even if criminal charges are filed? Yes. Criminal cases address violations of criminal law, while civil lawsuits allow families to seek financial recovery. These processes are separate, and one does not prevent the other.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For A Free Case Review

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal school bus crash, Parker Waichman LLP can help. As a national personal injury law firm, we fight for families impacted by tragic accidents. We offer free consultations to explain your rights and legal options. Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today to speak with an attorney. Deadlines apply, so act quickly to protect your claim. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide product injury law firm is ready to assist you and provide you with a free consultation.