New York Personal Injury Attorneys Blog6 people injured including 1 critically in crash between school bus accident and SUV in Westchester County
This morning in Yorktown, Westchester County, a school bus carrying five high school students was involved in a collision with an SUV. The crash occurred before 9:30 a.m. on Route 132, between Barger and Wildwoods streets as the investigation unfolds. While the front of the school bus was demolished (see video below), the students, thankfully, only sustained minor injuries and were taken to Westchester Medical Center with non-life-threatening conditions. The bus driver was also hospitalized for observation. Tragically, the SUV’s driver is currently in critical condition, possibly due to a medical emergency that could have precipitated the accident.
Understanding Your Rights After a School Bus Accident
If you or your child are involved in a school bus accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately, even if no injuries are apparent at the time. Some injuries, particularly those related to trauma or whiplash, may not become evident until hours or even days after the incident.
In cases like the one in Yorktown, determining liability is a key component of any legal action that may follow. Given preliminary reports that the SUV’s driver might have suffered a medical emergency, the question of negligence becomes complex. If a medical condition was known to the driver or should have been known, there may be liability on the part of the driver for not taking necessary precautions. Alternatively, if the medical emergency was unforeseeable, establishing fault could be more challenging.
The Role of a School Bus Accident Attorney
A specialized attorney can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the aftermath of such accidents. They can help:
- Investigate the crash thoroughly, including gathering police reports, medical records, and eyewitness accounts.
- Assess liability based on comprehensive evidence.
- Handle insurance claims and ensure that all parties are fairly represented in negotiations.
Victims of bus accidents might be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases involving minors, as with the Yorktown incident, settlements may include provisions for future medical treatment and any potential long-term effects.
In accidents involving possible medical emergencies, expert testimony can be crucial. Medical experts can provide insights into whether a medical episode could have been anticipated and what impact it might have had on the driver’s ability to control the vehicle.
The Yorktown school bus accident is a stark reminder of the unexpected nature of road incidents and the complex legal and medical questions that can arise from them. For those involved in similar incidents, consulting with a lawyer who specializes in school bus accidents is critical to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
