The summer holidays have come to an end, and as the school gates open once again, the roads are bustling with parents, caregivers, and school buses, all rushing to ensure that children make it to school on time. While this period marks a return to routine for many, it also brings an unfortunate reality – a higher risk of a school run accident occurring during term time.
According to a report by Admiral Car Insurance, school run accidents increase by a staggering 68% during the morning rush. This alarming statistic emphasises the importance of knowing how a school run accident can occur and what can be done to avoid them. It also highlights that seeking legal representation is crucial for obtaining the compensation you deserve if you find yourself injured in a school run accident.
The Morning Chaos
Every weekday morning, countless parents and caregivers juggle their responsibilities to ensure their children safely make it to school on time. This rush-hour traffic combined with the stress of time constraints can lead to dangerous driving behaviours and an increased risk of accidents. Here are some scenarios in which a school run accident can be caused:
Traffic Congestion:
School zones and areas surrounding educational institutions often experience high traffic congestion during drop-off hours. This congestion can lead to rear-end collisions, sideswipes, and fender benders as drivers try to navigate the crowded roads.
Distracted Driving:
Parents often have a lot on their minds during the school run. They might be managing multiple tasks, such as talking to someone over handsfree, adjusting the sat nav or they may be distracted by the behaviour of their children in the car. These distractions can take the driver’s attention off of the road and in a split second can result in an accident.
Pedestrian Accidents:
School areas are swarming with young pedestrians, many of whom may not be as clued up on road safety as others. Sometimes in the chaos of drop-offs, drivers may not notice children crossing the road or darting between vehicles. It is highly advised that drivers stick to the reduced speed limit in these areas, paying extra caution to potential hazards on both sides of the road.
Speeding and Reckless Driving:
When dealing with children in the mornings many of us will experience delays and occasionally run late. The urgency to get to school on time may lead some drivers to exceed speed limits or make risky manoeuvres. The impulsive decisions that reckless drivers make leave little time for other road users to react and avoid road traffic accidents.
Seeking Legal Representation for School Run Accidents
If you or a loved one has been involved in a road traffic accident during the school run in term time, seeking legal representation is essential.
Skilled personal injury solicitors have dealt with countless injury claims, with varying accident circumstances. One of the main benefits of instructing legal representation is that your solicitor will handle the majority of your claim on your behalf and guide you through the legal process, ensuring you are fully informed throughout.
A skilled solicitor will conduct thorough investigations to determine liability for your school run accident and gather evidence in support of your claim. This may be in the form of witness statements, photographs and CCTV footage.
Personal injury solicitors have the expertise to calculate your damages, in order to quantify the value of your claim. Compensation is awarded by taking into consideration your loss of earnings, medical bills, future expenses, pain, suffering and loss of amenity as a result of your injuries.
Discussions surrounding compensation can be extremely challenging, however your case manager will have experience in negotiating with defendants and their insurers to obtain a sufficient and fair award for your injuries. In the event a fair settlement can’t be reached, your solicitor can take your case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge.
In a time when you or your loved ones are dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of a school run accident, having legal representation can provide comfort and support during a difficult recovery process.
How can Stonehewer Moss help?
As the school year gets underway and the roads become more hazardous, its essential to be aware of the heightened risk of school run accidents. The statistics are clear – term-time accidents surge during morning drop-offs, and the consequences can be devastating.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a road traffic accident during term time, we urge you to seek legal representation promptly. Expert personal injury lawyers at Stonehewer Moss are here to guide you through the complex process of seeking compensation for your injuries. We are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the justice and support you deserve.
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation and to discuss your options. Together, we can navigate the path towards healing and recovery. Stay safe on the roads, especially during the school run, and remember that legal help is just a phone call away.
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Talk to one of our personal injury claims specialists
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