San Antonio, TX - Traffic came to a standstill Tuesday morning after a Southwest Independent School District bus carrying 33 students overturned along Loop 410 South near Old Pearsall Road, authorities confirmed.
Morning Crash Sends Six to Hospital
According to the San Antonio Fire Department, the bus driver—a 63-year-old woman—and five students were taken to the hospital for evaluation and treatment after the vehicle flipped onto its left side around 8:15 a.m. Officials said the driver required urgent medical transport.
District officials stated that none of the students suffered serious injuries. Several others received minor treatment at the scene, where EMS crews and school nurses examined each student as a precaution.
Students Escaped Through Emergency Exits
Fire crews reported that all students were able to exit through the rear door and roof emergency hatches before first responders arrived. The bus, identified as belonging to Southwest Legacy High School, did not have seat belts installed, the district said.
Police confirmed the bus was the only vehicle involved. A preliminary report indicated that the driver “could not see clearly” as the bus veered off the access road while entering the highway ramp, striking a concrete embankment before overturning. Investigators said the roads were dry and there was no indication of any criminal activity.
District Responds and Provides Update
In a social media statement, SWISD said that five students were initially transported for medical evaluation, while several others were picked up by parents or returned to campus. The district thanked emergency responders and families for their cooperation, noting that all students were accounted for shortly after the crash.
As of 4:15 p.m. Tuesday, officials reported that two students and the driver remain hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The remaining students were released to their families.
Legal Options for Families After a School Bus Crash
Following recent reports of the SWISD school bus accident in San Antonio, families are raising questions about what legal steps they can take when children are hurt in public transportation crashes. To offer clarity, Texas personal injury lawyer Anjali Nigam shared how victims and their families can protect their rights, document their losses, and seek accountability under state law.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Many families feel lost after hearing their child was involved in a bus accident. What steps should parents take immediately?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: The first step is making sure their child gets full medical evaluation—even if the injuries seem minor. After that, parents should document everything, including photos of injuries, hospital visits, and communication with the school district or insurance companies. That record becomes important later.
Banville: When might a family consider legal action?
Nigam: If there’s evidence the accident resulted from negligence—say, a visibility issue, mechanical problem, or lack of safety equipment—they can explore a claim for damages. That can include medical costs, emotional distress, or loss of function if injuries were more serious.
Banville: Do school districts usually bear responsibility directly?
Nigam: Not always. Liability can involve multiple parties: the district, the vehicle’s manufacturer, or a maintenance provider. Texas law allows families to seek compensation through specific notice procedures, but there are strict time limits. Consulting a lawyer early ensures they meet those deadlines.
Banville: What advice would you give parents dealing with the immediate aftermath?
Nigam: Stay calm, gather facts, and get professional advice before signing any settlement documents. A qualified attorney can review the case and help families understand their rights under Texas personal injury law.
Protect Your Family’s Rights — Contact Us Today
If your child or a loved one has been injured in a school bus accident, you don’t have to handle the situation alone. Our legal team is ready to review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next step toward recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation and speak with an attorney who understands what families face after serious transportation accidents.
