As a parent, you expect your child to be safe while riding a school bus. Sadly, accidents can occur even without warning, and children can sustain injuries. If this has happened to your youngster, you may be entitled to compensation.

Common Causes of School Bus Accidents in Florida

Certain factors commonly cause Florida school bus accidents. They are distracted driving, traffic violations, mechanical failure, poor weather conditions, negligent hiring or training and lack of proper maintenance.

Distracted Driving by Bus Driver

School bus accidents can easily occur when drivers become distracted. This can happen for various reasons from eating to looking at a phone to conversing with a passenger. Even daydreaming can lead to distraction and a collision. Bus drivers must remain alert to ensure everyone’s safety.

Traffic Violations

According to Florida Statute Chapter 316, all drivers must follow state traffic laws. If a school bus driver fails to adhere to the rules and regulations, accidents can occur and children can become injured. This means yielding the right of way to other vehicles and pedestrians, stopping at red lights and stop signs, signaling when making turns or lane changes, giving plenty of room between vehicles and more.

Mechanical Failure

Sometimes, a school bus accident happens because of factors beyond the driver’s control. Mechanical failure is one such example. If a bus component breaks down, it can cause the driver to lose control of their driving, speed, braking ability or turning.

Poor Weather Conditions

Poor weather conditions like rain, heavy winds and fog can cause school bus accidents. Even if the driver takes proper precautions to drive more safely, weather can be unpredictable and disaster can strike.

Negligent Hiring or Training of Bus Drivers

According to Florida Statute 768.096, negligent hiring of bus drivers can cause school bus accidents resulting in injury or death. Drivers must be properly screened through background checks, and employers should contact former employers to verify fitness for the job. Individuals looking to become school bus drivers must have thorough training and obtain their commercial driver’s license (CDL) with passenger endorsement.

Lack of Proper Maintenance of School Buses

School buses must be properly maintained to ensure they can safely operate. Florida requires these vehicles to be checked by a mechanic at least once every 30 days. Without regular maintenance, accidents can occur.

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Possible Injuries in School Bus Accidents in Florida

Florida school bus accidents can cause several possible injuries. They include head injuries, whiplash, broken bones, emotional trauma, spinal cord injuries and internal injuries.

Head Injuries

Head injuries occur when someone receives a blow or jolt upon the impact of a bus accident. The result can be a minor concussion to moderate or severe brain injury. Symptoms may include dizziness, headaches, confusion, loss of consciousness or coma.

Whiplash

Bus accidents cause whiplash when a victim’s head is whipped forward while their body stays still. This soft tissue injury causes soreness, stiffness and limited range of motion but often clears up after a few weeks.

Broken Bones

Depending on the impact of a school bus accident, victims can be left with broken bones. This can happen if they’re thrown against the back of a seat or fall onto the floor. Different areas can be affected, but the most common include arms, legs, wrists, ankles, fingers, nose and jaw.

Emotional Trauma

A child can suffer emotional trauma after a bus accident even if they sustain a mild physical injury or none at all. For example, your child might have escaped a crash with only a few scrapes, but they can develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or even a phobia of going back on a bus.

Spinal Cord Injuries

School bus accidents can lead to spinal cord injuries. If the crash is bad, a victim’s spine can be affected in the cervical or lumbar area. These injuries can range from mild to severe and debilitating.

Internal Injuries

In severe school bus accidents, victims can suffer internal injuries. These are medical emergencies because they signify organ damage.

Legal Considerations in School Bus Accidents

There are legal considerations in school bus accidents. They include liability and statute of limitations for filing a claim,

Liability in School Bus Accidents

Liability isn’t always clear in school bus accidents. The driver may be at fault, but sometimes, multiple parties are responsible. This can include the bus company and even the school district.

Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim

According to Florida Statute 95.11, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a school bus accident is two years. However, if a child is injured, the time is expanded to seven years.

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If we take on the case, our team fights to get you the maximum compensation legally possible.

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Importance of Hiring a School Bus Accident Lawyer in Melbourne, Florida

If you or your child was injured in a school bus accident in Melbourne, Florida, you need an experienced lawyer. Hiring the right one to handle your case gives you the best chance of a successful outcome.

What to Look for in a School Bus Accident Lawyer in Melbourne, Florida

It’s crucial to know what to look for in a Florida school bus accident lawyer. They include experience handling school bus accident cases, resources and investigative capabilities and track record or successful settlements or verdicts.

Experience Handling School Bus Accident Cases

The right attorney has experience handling school bus accident claims. Often, these cases are complex, so knowledge and expertise are required.

Resources and Investigative Capabilities

School bus accident lawyers have the right resources and investigative capabilities to determine the facts of your case. If anything is unclear, a team can investigate or recreate the accident to determine how it happened.

Track Record of Successful Settlements or Verdicts

The best attorney for your case has an excellent track record of success. Satisfactory settlements and favorable verdicts can ensure you’re in good hands. Your lawyer will fight every step of the way for you.

Andrew Pickett Law Can Help School Bus Accident Victims in Florida

If you or a loved one has been injured in a school bus accident in Florida, our experienced legal team is ready to hear your case and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact us today by phone or through our contact form. We’ll quickly set up a complimentary, no-obligation consultation to review your case and discuss potential legal options.

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I had an excellent experience with Andrew Pickett Law and especially with their paralegal, Lindsey Pike for my personal injury case. Lindsey was incredibly informative and took the time to thoroughly explain the litigation process to me, which made navigating everything so much easier. She was patient, responsive, and always made sure I felt supported throughout the case. I truly appreciated her guidance and professionalism. I would highly recommend Andrew Pickett Law anyone seeking legal assistance.

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amber rutgerson

My experience with Pickett’s Litigation Paralegal, Lindsey Pike was top notch!! She remained calm, organized and had all the answers to every question I had!! Thank you Lindsey!!!

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Lindsey Pike

Phenomenal law firm! They care about their clients and their results!

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Alan Woolwich

My recent experiences with the Andrew Pickett Law firm where top flight in handling my automobile accident where I was hit from behind by a under-insured driver and received related injuries and vehicle damage. Attorney Jessica Hicks and the entire Pickett Law team in Melbourne, FL did an excellent job from the first consultation call to the final settlement results with very favorable outcomes in restoring my health, property and compensation. The team provided excellent and timely coordination, guidance, preparation and advice throughout legal process with a balanced application of phone calls, texts and emails and were always available, responsive, professional and friendly. The coordination and negotiations with my multiple medical providers and insurer by Attorney Jessica Hicks was impressive and impactful. If you are involved in an accident in Brevard County Andrew Pickett Law and team will deliver results and I would recommend they be your first consultation call.

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Maria Mendelson

I highly recommend Andrew Pickett and his team. They handled my accident case with professionalism, knowledge, and care. They were always available to answer my questions and kept me informed throughout the entire process. Their dedication and expertise made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. I’m very grateful for their support and the positive outcome they achieved for me.

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Meredith Sand

I had a great experience working with Jessica Hicks. Professional, efficient and very knowledgeable. Great results, would highly recommend.

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Joshua Cason

I had an outstanding experience with Pickett Law. Attorney Jessica Hicks and the Pickett Law team did an incredible job on my trip and fall case. From the first phone call with Jessica and Andrew Picket, I knew I was in good hands. Jessica Hicks is an incredible advocate, she is prepared thorough, and will go the extra mile. The entire staff truly care about their clients, they are so knowledgable and answered any questions I had throughout the case. I am so blessed to have the best team represent me. Thank you: Jessica Hicks, Jeremie, Tina, Kimberly, Vonda, Jenny, Andrew, and the entire Pickett Law Team!!

Response from the owner: Josh, what a great review! Thanks for trusting us to assist you with your case. Please let us know if we can ever be of service in the future.

Victoria Wasinger

Jessica Hicks is an outstanding attorney. She is extremely knowledgeable, effective in the courtroom and made me feel at ease. You’re in good hands with Jessica and this law firm.

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Matthew Wasinger

Jessica Hicks is my go to for anything Personal Injury related. She is organized, well prepared, attentive to her client's needs, and she is not afraid to take a case to trial. If you want an attorney that will fight for you and protect your legal rights, she is the best there is.

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David Z

I’m not sure I’d still be here today without Jessica Hicks. Thank you Andrew Pickett Law!

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Malaina Brow

i highly recommend JESSICA HICKS she is and outstanding attorney and has done wonders for my case, i can't thank her enough for all her hard work and dedication. she has put in the time to help me, very caring and gets the job done million stars...

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I would highly recommend Jessica Hicks as a great attorney. She walked me through everything with a piece of mind and made me feel at ease. Very compassionate and excellent communication. Helping me understand step by step what was happening with my situation. Very grateful for her

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Fallon Klenotich

I had an amazing experience with Andrew Pickett Law. I was always receiving calls, messages and emails with any updates to the case or questions they had for me. Their availability to answer my calls and questions was flexible and respectful. I would highly suggest this law firm for any person who has experienced injury from an automobile accident and is seeking further assistance legally. This office makes sure you are informed and well taken care of.

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Dayna Rivera

Andrew Pickett Law and their team of attorneys are exceptional. Mr. Pickett is knowledgeable, courteous, and dedicated. A consummate professional. As an attorney, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside Ms. Hicks and Ms. Whitehouse and their trial experience and negotiation skills are outstanding. What an amazing team!

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It's hands down one of the best personal injury firms I’ve ever seen! I referred my brother to this firm, and he continues to tell me how communicative and diligent Jessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse are in getting him the best outcome!

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Taylor McDermid

Review for Jessica Hicks and Tiffany WhitehouseJessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse are exceptional personal injury attorneys who truly stand out for their attention to detail and genuine care for their clients. From the very beginning, they go above and beyond to ensure every aspect of your case is meticulously handled. They take the time to understand your unique circumstances, patiently answer all your questions, and keep you informed throughout the process.What sets them apart is their heartfelt dedication to their clients. You can tell that they genuinely care—not just about winning cases, but about helping people rebuild their lives after difficult situations. Jessica and Tiffany are compassionate, responsive, and fiercely advocate for the best possible outcome.If you’re looking for attorneys who combine legal expertise with a personal touch, Jessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse are the team you want on your side. Highly recommended!

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Frankie Vitiello

I cannot say enough positive things about Andrew Pickett Law and their incredible team of attorneys. Jessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse bring an exceptional level of professionalism, skill, and care to every case they handle. Jessica’s extensive trial experience is evident in her strategic approach and dedication to achieving justice, while Tiffany’s unique combination of legal expertise and medical knowledge provides invaluable insight for personal injury cases.What truly distinguishes this firm is its unwavering commitment to justice and client care. From the first consultation, you are met with clear communication, thoughtful strategy, and a team that treats your case with the gravity and diligence it deserves. If you are seeking tireless advocates who blend compassion with formidable expertise, Andrew Pickett Law is the firm to trust.

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Zak Kolo

Tiffany Whitehouse & Jessica Hicks are some of the most talented and driven individuals you will ever have the pleasure of working with. Their professionalism and kindness goes beyond and is a weight off your shoulders.

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Jordan Kolodziejczak

Tiffany Whitehouse and Jessica Hicks are AMAZING attorneys who have dedicated their careers to helping people in need. There work at Pickett is a shining example of this the way they fight for their clients (even getting better results than some of the bigger firms in the area)

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Tierra Johnson

10000000/10 Very professional and very respectful. My case moved very quickly and Vonda, Tina and Tiffany kept me in the loop with every step of the process. I am more than pleased with the outcome and would recommend Pickett Law to ALL my family, friends and acquaintances. Thank you !!!

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Rebecca Collura

If you are reading this you may have been in a car accident which I am sure has disrupted your life as it did mine. Dealing with your insurance company will be impossible and their goal is to give you the least amount of money possible regardless of your injuries. It is a slow process and you have to be patient. Andrew Pickett will work extremely hard to get you enough money to take care of past and potential future expenses. He is extremely good at what he does and his support staff are attentive and responsive as well. Personally I wouldn't be a number at one of those big firms that advertise on TV. Andrew was completely involved in my case and took great care of me. Stay strong, I pray the pain will lessen for you, and let Andrew fight for you!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Rebecca! What a thoughtful review. It was an honor to represent you.

Sandra Musgrave

The entire team is amazing. Andrew and his team worked hard to get the best outcome for our case. I am very happy with our decisions to hire him after our accident.

Response from the owner: Thank you for trusting us, Sandra! It was an honor to represent you and your family.

Joseph Grant

Andrew and his team were professional and helped me through every step of the way. They made sure I was comfortable and understood the entire process. I would strongly recommend them to anyone!

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Ashley Severance

Mr. Pickett is a fantastic personal injury attorney who has represented several of my own clients in various injury matters. He has obtained very favorable results for my clients. He is responsive, attentive, and detail oriented. I highly recommend his services.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review, Ashley! We are honored to receive referrals from you.

Kimberly Marconi

I worked with Jessica Hicks after I was hit by another driver. She worked diligently, professionally, and exhaustively on my case which resulted in compensation. Jessica Hicks is by far one of the most caring, qualified, and knowledgeable lawyers in Brevard County and the state of Florida. I highly recommend Jessica for her skill, expertise, and exemplary service. You will not be disappointed in choosing her as your lawyer. Thank you, Jessica.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind review, Kimberly! I am pleased we were able to reach a resolution.

Melissa Williamson

Amazing law firm. Highly recommend.

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Karen Garach

I had the privilege of working with Andrew Pickett and his staff at Andrew Pickett Law for my personal injury case, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. From our first meeting, he displayed a genuine concern for my well-being and a deep understanding of the legal complexities involved.Mr. Pickett was always available to answer my questions and provided clear guidance throughout the process. He fought tirelessly on my behalf, ensuring that I received the compensation I deserved.The level of professionalism and dedication was truly outstanding. I highly recommend Andrew Pickett Law to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. Thank you for your exceptional service!

Response from the owner: Karen, what a wonderful review! We appreciate your kind words.

Stefani Tennyson

Hands down best attorney in town. Andrew takes his time with you through the entire process and keeps you informed. If you are looking for a local attorney that you can trust, Andrew Picket Law is for you.

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Vinnie Taranto

Andrew is an amazing attorney that truly cares about his clients.

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Angela Roth

I had an excellent experience with Andrew Pickett and their team. From the initial consultation to the final settlement, they were professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. They truly worked hard to get a favorable outcome. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of a skilled accident attorney. Thank you for your outstanding service!

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Raymond Miley

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linda williams

I had the best experience working with Pickett Law. They are all very knowledgeable about the law. We personally worked with Atty Tiffany Whitehouse and her team of Tina Johnson and Vonda Vassar, they knew how to get us the most money that we were entitled to from a car accident. I don’t know what we would have done without their help. If you are ever looking for an atty, we highly recommend this office.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the great review, Linda! And thank you for your trust in our law firm. If we can ever assist you or any friends or family in the future, please let us know.

Shaun Peiffer

I had an excellent experience with Andrew Pickett Law firm. From start to finish, the team was incredibly responsive and attentive to my needs. Jessica was outstanding in patiently answering all my questions, making sure I fully understood each step of the process. I also want to thank Vonda for taking the time at the beginning of my case to walk me through everything, providing clarity and peace of mind. In the end, I was more than happy with the successful settlement outcome. I highly recommend Andrew Pickett Law firm for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Shaun! It was an honor to represent you. We are grateful for the trust you placed in us. If we can ever be of assistance to you or your friends or family in the future, please let us know.

Belinda Darnell

I had the privilege of working with Attorney Jessica Hicks alongside Attorney Andrew Pickett during my personal injury case, and their exceptional representation made all the difference. From the very beginning, they were attentive, compassionate, and highly engaged with every detail of my case. Attorney Jessica Hicks, in particular, formed a great personal connection with me, truly understanding the pain and challenges I faced after my accident.Their communication was outstanding, keeping me informed at every step through phone calls, office visits, text messages, and their office app. Attorney Jessica Hicks’ dedication and persistence led to securing the full allowable settlement amount without the need to go to court, which was an immense relief.I cannot recommend Attorney Jessica Hicks and Attorney Andrew Pickett highly enough. Their knowledge, support, and commitment are of the highest caliber. Jessica, in particular, is a determined and relentless advocate, ensuring that I was fully supported and heard throughout the process. If you're looking for attorneys who will truly fight for you, Jessica Hicks and Andrew Pickett Law are the ones to choose.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the great and thoughtful review, Belinda! It was a pleasure to represent you, and we are happy that you are satisfied with our efforts.

Jen Gonzo

ANDREW PICKETT LAW represented me in my case and they were professional all the way through. I am so grateful for what they were able to do for me. Big kudos to my attorney Jessica Hicks. 👏

Response from the owner: Thank you, Jennifer! Great review. So happy that we were able to resolve your case favorably!

Ken Williams

Andrew Pickett and his staff worked extremely hard to resolve my case I am extremely happy that I went with them and will use them in the future most definitely they kept me well informed and The professionalism I experienced wasunmatched.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Ken! It was a pleasure to represent you and get to know you.

Valeta Cameron

Exceptional attorney! Highly recommended for any of your personal injury needs.

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Rose Hudson

Andrew and his team were incredibly knowledgeable and showed empathy and compassion to me throughout the entire process. My questions were always answered, even after the case closed. I continue to follow Andrew Pickett on various social media outlets as he regularly creates relevant and informative content. I highly recommend Andrew Pickett.

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Marquisha Mansfield

Very helpful great status wonderful work

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jhayco

Great job and great service

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Beatrice Maxime

I am so very grateful to have had this firm represent me. I was in a car accident a few years ago, but the car insurance company of the person who totaled my car would not replace my car, nor pay for my medical bills. So we hired a Law Firm who then brought in Andrew Pickett Law on the case. I am so happy Andrew agreed to come onboard. He worked really hard on my case. Even though things were moving slow because of Covid-19 pandemic, he never stop working on my behalf. He was very dedicated to the case. I'm grateful for his professionalism, his patience, and his devotion.We ended up going to court and because of Mr. Pickett, we won the case.Thank you so much for all you did for us!!!!

Response from the owner: Beatrice, thank you so much for your kind words! I really enjoyed getting to know you and your family. It was an honor to represent you and join you on this journey.

Marilyn Colpitts

Fantastic service and professionalism. The Pickett Law firm handle my case with care and understanding. I recommend this firm with your case that may be out of the ordinary. Extremely pleased with the outcome.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Marilyn!