Are there any consequences for the school board if they are found negligent in a school bus accident?

Yes, there are consequences for the school board if they are found negligent in a school bus accident in Washington. Negligence is failure to provide a level of care that a reasonably prudent person would provide in the same situation. When a school board is found liable for a bus accident, it can be held responsible for damages caused by the accident. The most common type of damages sought are compensatory damages, which are designed to make the injured party “whole again” by restoring their financial losses. Examples of compensatory damages include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The school board can also be held liable for punitive damages, which are intended to punish the school board and deter similar conduct in the future. The school board may also face criminal charges, such as reckless endangerment or negligent homicide. The driver of the bus may also be charged, depending on the facts of the case and the criminal laws of Washington. In addition to facing financial and criminal repercussions, the school board may also be subject to disciplinary action by the appropriate state agency. For instance, the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction may revoke the bus driver’s license and/or suspend the school board’s authority to operate school buses. Finally, the school board may face civil actions by the victims of the accident. These actions may result in settlements or verdicts that require the school board to pay damages to the victims. Because school boards are public entities, they are typically subject to special laws and regulations that limit the amount of damages they can be held responsible to pay.

Are there any consequences for the school board if they are found negligent in a school bus accident?

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