Back-to-School Safety: Who’s Liable in a School Zone Accident?

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04 Sep Back-to-School Safety: Who’s Liable in a School Zone Accident?

Posted at 15:31h in Blog, Car Accidents by

As kids head back to school in Long Island, school zones become busy with cars, buses, bicycles, and pedestrians. While the excitement of a new school year builds, the risk of school zone accidents increases. Whether a child is hit while crossing the street or a car is involved in a fender bender near a school, one question often comes up: Who is liable in a school zone accident?

This blog explores the legal responsibilities of drivers, property owners, and even municipalities. It also offers safety tips for parents and drivers during the back-to-school rush. If your child has been injured, a school zone accident lawyer at Gruenberg Kelly Della is ready to help you understand your rights.

Understanding School Zone Laws in Long Island

New York takes school zone safety seriously. State law mandates lower speed limits, designated crosswalks, and enhanced penalties for violations within school zones.

Key Features of Long Island School Zone Laws:

  • Speed limits are typically 15 to 25 mph during school hours or when lights are flashing.

  • Fines double for speeding in school zones.

  • Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, especially children.

  • Passing a stopped school bus is strictly prohibited and heavily fined.

When drivers violate these rules and an accident occurs, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a School Zone Accident?

1. Negligent Drivers

Most school zone accidents happen because a driver failed to obey traffic laws. Common driver errors include:

  • Speeding in a posted school zone

  • Failing to yield at crosswalks

  • Distracted driving

  • Illegally passing a stopped school bus

If a child is injured by a driver in any of these scenarios, the driver can be held financially responsible.

2. Municipalities or School Districts

Sometimes, poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or defective crosswalk lights contribute to a school zone accident. In these cases, a local government or school district may be liable. Filing claims against public entities involves specific deadlines and rules, so it is important to work with an experienced attorney.

3. Property Owners Near Schools

If a child trips or falls on a sidewalk or parking lot adjacent to a school or daycare, the property owner could be liable under New York premises liability law. They are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for students, parents, and staff.

What to Do If Your Child Is Injured in a School Zone

If your child is involved in a pedestrian or bicycle accident near a school, take the following steps immediately:

  1. Seek medical attention for all injuries, even those that seem minor.

  2. Report the accident to local authorities and obtain a police report.

  3. Gather witness information and take photos of the scene.

  4. Contact a school zone accident lawyer to evaluate the case.

The legal process may seem overwhelming, but the right attorney will guide you through it and help recover damages for medical costs, emotional trauma, and long-term care.

Tips for Preventing School Zone Accidents

For Drivers:

  • Drive slowly and cautiously during school hours.

  • Avoid distractions such as cell phones or loud music.

  • Be extra cautious around crosswalks and school buses.

  • Always assume children may dart out unexpectedly.

For Parents and Children:

  • Teach kids to use crosswalks and obey crossing guards.

  • Walk younger children to school or to the bus stop.

  • Make sure backpacks are not too heavy to prevent falls.

  • Choose brightly colored clothing for better visibility.

Legal Help for School Zone Accidents in Long Island

Accidents near schools can have life-changing consequences, especially when children are involved. If you are seeking justice for a pedestrian child injury in NY, the attorneys at Gruenberg Kelly Della will fight to hold the responsible party accountable.

We have extensive experience navigating Long Island school zone laws and representing families in complex injury cases.

📞 Call Today: 631-910-6604
🖥️ Website: https://www.newyorklawgroup.com/
📍 Serving Nassau and Suffolk Counties and the greater Long Island area