Who is liable for a school bus accident?

In Maryland, the individual or entity responsible for a school bus accident depends on the circumstances. In general, the driver of the bus is liable for the accident, whether it is a private driver or an employee of a school district. The driver’s employer may also be held liable for the accident if it is found that the employer was negligent in training or supervising the driver or maintaining the vehicle. In other words, if the school district failed to properly train the driver on safe driving practices or failed to properly maintain the bus, then it could be held liable for the accident. In addition, the manufacturer of the bus or any of its parts may be held responsible if the accident was due to a defective part. For instance, if the brakes on the bus were defective, the manufacturer or repair shop could be held liable for the accident. Lastly, a governmental agency, such as the state of Maryland or the school district, may be liable for the accident if its negligence played a role in causing the accident. If the school district failed to properly inspect or maintain the bus, or if it failed to provide adequate bus stops or lighting, then the government agency could be held liable. Regardless of who is found to be responsible for the accident, it is important to remember that any victims of the accident may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

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Who is liable for a school bus accident?

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