Every parent’s worst nightmare came true this past Tuesday in Medford Township in Burlington County, New Jersey when a school bus dropping students off after school collided with a utility truck.

According to news reports, the crash happened around 2:53 p.m. at the intersection of Hawkin and Skeet roads in Medford. Medford police said the school bus was on Hawkin Road and attempting to turn left on Skeet Road. The utility truck hit the bus while the truck was traveling in the opposing lane.

Fourteen students were injured in the crash. Ten students were taken to Virtua Hospital for treatment, while another was taken to Cooper University Medical Center. The parents of three students brought them to Cooper after they picked them up from the scene of the crash. Fortunately, none of the students’ injuries were considered life-threatening.

Notably, a speed limit increase on Hawkin Road, including the portion that intersects with Skeet Road, drew fire from local residents back in 2018, who were concerned that the increase could lead to more collisions and injuries.

What to Do if Your Child Is Injured in a School Bus Crash

If your child was involved in a crash on a school bus, you should immediately contact the school and confirm the details of the incident. It is also essential to determine the extent of your child’s injuries and seek medical attention, even if your child tells you they feel uninjured. Because some injuries may not be immediately apparent, seeking medical treatment immediately is important.

Regardless of the severity of their injuries, you should schedule regular follow-up visits with a doctor to monitor your child’s recovery and update their medical records, which can be essential if you decide to pursue a lawsuit regarding the crash.

Legal Liability in School Bus Crashes

Determining liability in a school bus crash can be a complex process. Potentially liable parties could include the bus driver, the bus company, the school district, other drivers involved in the crash, and the companies employing those drivers if they were driving while “on the clock” at their jobs.

Bringing on a personal injury attorney soon after a school bus crash can be beneficial. A skilled attorney can guide you through the legal processes, help you understand your and your child’s rights, and advocate for the best possible outcome on behalf of your child. They could also begin investigating the accident and collecting evidence before it is lost or destroyed.