Is a school bus driver considered an employee or an independent contractor?

In Maryland, school bus drivers are considered employees, not independent contractors. This is because the driver is under the direct control of the school district, works within its policies and instructions, and follows its direction. The school district will also set the driver’s working hours, pay, and other conditions. Furthermore, the school district has the right to terminate the driver’s services should his/her performance not meet the expected standards. Although the school district does not pay employee benefits such as health insurance or retirement contributions to the driver, the driver is still considered an employee; as an employee, they are eligible for workers’ compensation should they get injured while on the job. Additionally, the school district’s liability insurance covers the driver’s actions while operating a school bus. This means that the school district is legally responsible for any accidents, injuries, or deaths the driver causes while operating a school bus. This further solidifies the fact that the driver is an employee of the school district, as the district is ultimately responsible for the driver’s actions. All in all, it is clear that a school bus driver in Maryland is an employee and not an independent contractor. The school district retains full control of the driver, and the driver is insured and protected by the school district’s liability policies.

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