From August to October 2025, over 158 students were hit by vehicles while commuting to or from school, with drivers at fault in 101 of these cases (MSN.com). And between the 2024 and 2025 school years, national statistics indicate that an estimated 13,200 people are injured in school bus-related crashes annually (Campus Safety Magazine).
The statistics for delivery and commercial vehicle accidents specifically related to students aren't concrete, but the risks continue to grow, especially on campuses where deliveries from online marketplaces or service vendors occur daily.
Below, we'll explore what students should know about their rights if an accident happens.
Why Accidents by a Delivery or Commercial Vehicle Are Common for Students
Whether they’re walking, cycling, taking a campus shuttle, or driving, students at public schools and on college campuses are sharing roads with delivery and commercial vehicles. Naturally, there's a risk of an accident happening, but in California, where pedestrian fatalities are the highest in the nation, students must be particularly cautious.
Delivery vehicles have become common as online retail and same-day delivery services have exploded. Nearly 70% of US goods are transported by trucks, so commercial vehicles are on the roads more than ever.
Some key factors that make delivery and commercial vehicle accidents common:
- Increased traffic volumes
- Driver fatigue and tight schedules
- Blind spots and maneuvering challenges
- Urban pedestrian risks
When students are on or near a roadway—crossing streets between classes, walking by campus stops, riding bikes—they are more vulnerable.
The Most Common Injuries
Injuries resulting from delivery or commercial vehicle collisions are often more serious than typical car accidents because of the size and weight of these vehicles. Some of the most common accidents include:
- Head and brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Spinal cord and neck injuries
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue damage and emotional trauma
You've also got the risk of significant soft tissue injuries like sprains, strains, torn ligaments, and PTSD after the accident.
What Rights Do Students Have?
Students have the same rights as anyone injured in an accident involving a commercial vehicle in the US. The law generally provides a range of legal rights and avenues for compensation; whether they're working with a Los Angeles commercial vehicle accident attorney or one in New York, the rights for students are the same. The only time they differ is when the student is clearly at fault, and that can be proven. In some states like California, even if a student is partially at fault for the accident, they can still recover partial compensation for their injuries.
First and foremost, students have the right to compensation if someone else's careless driving caused injury. Compensation for damages can cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
And whoever is filing a personal injury lawsuit can go to a civil court, targeting:
- The driver
- The delivery or commercial company
- Other potentially liable parties (ex: a maintenance provider if vehicle defects contributed).
Statute of Limitations
It's worth noting that there is a deadline, known as the statute of limitations, to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident. In Los Angeles, that's two years from the date of the injury or accident, as established by CCP § 335.1. That said, most people quickly file a claim when there's a clear injury or fault. If they are unsure, victims may schedule a free consultation with a local commercial vehicle accident attorney to learn if they have a case.
The impact on students' studies, finances, and lifestyles is great enough that students of all ages should be aware of their rights and responsibilities when sharing the road with drivers. If an accident happens, there's plenty of protection and compensation available for them if they're injured by a delivery or commercial driver.
Conclusion
If you or your child has been injured by a delivery or commercial vehicle, it’s important to act quickly and understand your legal options. These accidents can have long-term consequences on a student’s health, education, and financial stability. Seeking experienced legal guidance can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. BD&J Personal Injury Lawyers has extensive experience handling complex commercial vehicle accident cases and is committed to advocating for injured victims throughout California. If you have questions about your case, consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help you move forward with confidence and focus on recovery.
