Are there specific laws that govern school bus accidents?
Yes, there are specific laws that govern school bus accidents in Pennsylvania. These laws are designed to protect both the students on board the bus and those who are in the vicinity of the bus. These laws are enforced by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, who has stated that all school buses must adhere to certain safety standards, such as being equipped with adequate safety equipment, including fire extinguishers and clearly marked emergency exits. In order for a school bus to legally operate in Pennsylvania, the owner must have a valid state-issued driver’s license and have completed a state-approved driver’s education course. All drivers and school bus operators must be 21-years-old or older and must have a clean driving record. The drivers must also complete an intensive pre-trip inspection before any trips, which includes inspecting exterior and interior features of the bus, such as the brakes, lights, tires, and mirrors. In the event of an accident, Pennsylvania’s laws dictate that the police should be contacted, and that the bus driver should exchange information with the other driver, in order to report the incident. The police must also be informed of any injuries, medical conditions, or property damage. The owner of the bus must also provide a copy of the incident report to the parent/guardian of each student on board. Furthermore, drivers must also complete an accident report if they are involved in an accident, regardless of the severity.
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