How to Claim Compensation for Your Child After a Bus or Coach Accident 

Collaborative guest post

If your child has been involved in a bus or coach accident, you’ve already been through unimaginable stress. And if they were seriously injured too, this experience is immensely difficult for the whole family.  

Being on hand for emotional support is one thing, but having to help rebuild their independence is something else entirely. Life-changing injuries mean different routines, extensive medical treatment, and total upheaval at home. 

While you can’t change what’s happened, seeking legal support could be the first step towards rebuilding a future together. 

1. Understanding liability

Under UK law, drivers and coach operators have a legal duty of care to transport their passengers safely and effectively. They must take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of anyone in their care. 

So, after an accident, who is responsible for your child’s injuries?

The answer is complicated, and liability can sometimes fall to several parties at once. It’s likely that the defendants will be the bus or coach company itself, or perhaps the driver. 

In some cases, poor vehicle maintenance can be the source of the negligence. Danger can arise when bus driver safety standards are not upheld or safety protocols are overlooked.

2. Gathering evidence to support your claim

Any personal injury claim can only be as strong as the evidence supporting it. 

You will need to provide timely and thorough documents, which should include supplementary evidence like:

• Official reports from the police, bus company or score
• Medical records relating to your child’s injuries and ongoing treatment
• Witness statements from anyone who saw the accident, including children
• Photographs of the accidence scene, your child’s injuries, and any other vehicles that were involved.

We know that going over the details can be incredibly painful. But don’t forget that with comprehensive evidence, you can build a strong case for a road traffic accident claim. 

3. Understanding the compensation process

Once the claim is filed by your solicitor, it will move through a multi-stage process. Most cases are settled outside of court, but you should prepare yourself for formal litigation if the agreement faces multiple delays.

Time limits also apply. Adults only have three years since the negligence occurred in which to make a personal injury claim. 

However, for anyone aged under 18 years old, this limit doesn’t begin until they turn 18. If you’d like to claim on your child’s behalf, you will have until their 21^st birthday to start court proceedings.  

4. Seeking specialist support

Dealing with the aftermath of an accident like this can be truly overwhelming. 

You deserve to be supported by an experienced solicitor who specialises in child injury claims. They can undergo the complexities of the claims process on your behalf, so you can focus your time and attention on supporting your child as they recover. 

With a favourable outcome, working with a solicitor means securing vital funds needed for your child’s future care, rehabilitation and independence.