As the new school year begins, families across North Carolina prepare for the return of daily routines, early morning alarms, and the bustling activity of school buses navigating through neighborhoods. While the start of school brings excitement, it also heightens the need for caution, especially when it comes to school bus safety. At RHD Legal, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our children on the roads and helping families understand the legal protections in place.

School Bus Safety: A Shared Responsibility

School buses are one of the safest modes of transportation for children. However, the safety of students relies on everyone sharing the road—drivers, parents, and the children themselves. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights that students are safer when riding a school bus than traveling by car, but accidents can still happen, particularly when other drivers fail to follow traffic laws.

Key Safety Tips for Drivers:

1. Stop for School Buses: North Carolina law requires all drivers to stop when a school bus is displaying its stop sign or flashing red lights. This law applies under most circumstances, but there are specific rules based on the type of road:
   • When There Is No Median: On a two-lane road, a four-lane road without a median, or a multi-lane road without a median, traffic in both directions must stop when the school bus displays its stop arm or flashing red lights. This ensures that children can safely cross the street in front of the bus.
   • When There Is a Median: On a divided highway with a median or physical barrier (such as a raised divider), only traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus is required to stop. Traffic moving in the opposite direction can continue without stopping. However, it’s still important to slow down and stay alert for children who may not follow the crossing rules.
2. Be Alert in School Zones: Slow down and be extra vigilant in school zones, where children may be crossing the street or biking to school. Speeding in these areas not only puts lives at risk but can also result in hefty fines and legal consequences.
3. Watch for Pedestrians: Children may not always be aware of the dangers of crossing the street, so it’s essential for drivers to be on the lookout for kids who may dart out into traffic.
4. Avoid Distracted Driving: With the increased traffic during school hours, it’s critical to stay focused on the road. Avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving.

Safety Tips for Parents and Children:

1. Teach Bus Safety Rules: Make sure your children know the importance of staying seated on the bus, keeping their voices low, and following the bus driver’s instructions.
2. Safe Crossing Practices: Instruct your children to wait for the bus to come to a complete stop and the driver’s signal before crossing the street. They should always cross in front of the bus and stay visible to the driver.
3. Plan a Safe Route: If your children walk or bike to school, plan a route that avoids busy streets and has adequate sidewalks or bike lanes. Practice the route with them before school starts to ensure they are comfortable and aware of potential hazards.

Legal Recourse in the Event of an Accident

Despite everyone’s best efforts, accidents involving school buses can still occur. In such unfortunate cases, it’s important to understand your legal rights. RHD Legal is committed to advocating for families affected by school bus accidents, whether the incident involves a collision with another vehicle, pedestrian injuries, or any other type of harm.

In North Carolina, establishing liability in a school bus accident can be complex due to the state’s contributory negligence laws, which can bar recovery if the injured party is found to be even slightly at fault. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who understands the intricacies of these laws and can help navigate the legal process.

Why Choose RHD Legal?

At RHD Legal, we are passionate about protecting the rights of our community’s most vulnerable members—our children. Our legal team has extensive experience handling personal injury cases, including those involving school bus accidents. We are here to support families in their time of need, providing compassionate, expert guidance every step of the way.

Conclusion

As we head into the new school year, let’s all commit to making safety a priority. By following the rules of the road and being vigilant, we can help ensure that every child arrives at school and returns home safely. And if the unthinkable happens, RHD Legal is here to stand by your side, offering the legal expertise you need to seek justice and protect your family’s future.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a school bus accident, contact RHD Legal today for a free consultation through either our contact form or by calling us at (919) 246-4001. We are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.