[12-12-2024] Santa Clara County, CA – One Injured After Multi-Vehicle Crash Involving School Bus on Homer Avenue in Palo Alto

One person sustained injuries after a multi-vehicle crash involving a school bus carrying three children in Palo Alto on Thursday morning, December 12, 2024.

According to the Palo Alto Fire Department, the crash was reported at 8:04 a.m. at the intersection of Homer Avenue and Middlefield Road.

The vehicles involved included a gray Subaru, a red Hyundai, and the school bus. The Palo Alto Police Department confirmed that one person, who was not on the bus, sustained minor to moderate injuries. No injuries were reported among the students on the school bus.

Preliminary investigations by the California Highway Patrol revealed conflicting accounts from the drivers. The drivers of the school bus and the Subaru claimed to have had the green light, while the Hyundai driver also asserted having the green light. The vehicles collided in the middle of the intersection.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash.

The investigation into the accident continues.

Reach Out To Our Trusted Accident Lawyers In Palo Alto, CA

If you were injured or lost a loved one in a traffic accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Ask our experienced personal injury attorneys, led by the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., for legal advice regarding your possible case. Our Palo Alto accident lawyers are here for you!

Get a free initial consultation with our respected bus accident attorneys, who will review your case, discuss the next steps, and examine all the factors that could affect your settlement amount. They can also assist you if obtaining further information or a police report proves challenging.

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Steps To Take After An Accident In Palo Alto, CA

Accidents can be overwhelming, but knowing the right steps to take can help you manage the situation effectively. By staying organized and following a clear plan, you can protect yourself, and your rights, and ensure proper documentation.

Here’s a guide on what to do if you’re involved in an accident in Palo Alto:

1. Stay Calm – Keep your composure and check yourself and others for injuries. It’s important to remain calm and focused during this stressful time.
2. Move To Safety – If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and wait for the authorities in a safe location.
3. Call 911 – Notify the police immediately. They will document the accident and create an official record for further proceedings.
4. Exchange Information – Swap names, contact numbers, and insurance details with the other driver(s). Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, and any damage for future reference.
5. Do Not Admit Fault – Avoid saying anything that could be construed as admitting blame. Stick to the facts and avoid apologies.
6. Seek Medical Attention – Visit a doctor or hospital right away, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can still have lasting effects.
7. Report To Your Insurance Company – California law requires prompt reporting to your insurer. Call them as soon as possible and follow their instructions.
8. Be Cautious With Insurance Adjusters – If you’re contacted by the other party’s insurance company, be careful with what you share. Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting offers without consulting an attorney.
9. Organize Your Documents – Keep all paperwork related to the accident, including police reports, medical bills, and insurance information, in an organized file for future reference.
10. Consult An Accident Lawyer – If you’re unsure about your next steps, don’t hesitate to call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation. Our experienced California accident lawyers are here to guide you through the process, assist with insurance claims, and help you file a personal injury claim if needed.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Vehicle Accident Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released its traffic fatality projections for 2022, estimating 42,795 deaths due to motor vehicle crashes. This marks a slight decrease of 0.3% from the 42,939 fatalities reported in 2021.

The fatality rate also dropped to 1.35 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in 2022, compared to 1.37 per 100 million VMT in 2021. Additionally, Americans are driving more than during the pandemic’s peak, with nearly a 1% increase in driving compared to 2021.

NHTSA also noted a decline in fatalities during the fourth quarter of 2022, continuing a downward trend for the third consecutive quarter after a seven-quarter increase that began in the third quarter of 2020.