As families across Alabama and beyond prepare for the back-to-school season, safety becomes top of mind: school supplies are double-checked, bus schedules confirmed, and lunch boxes packed. But there’s one crucial topic that deserves serious attention during this busy time of year: the life-threatening danger of leaving children in hot vehicles.
A Preventable Tragedy
Every year, an average of 38 children die in the U.S. from heatstroke after being left in a vehicle. In many cases, the driver is a caregiver or school transport operator who becomes distracted or misremembers a routine. Whether it’s a quick stop or an unintentional lapse, the outcome can be devastating.
Just How Hot Can It Get?
Even on a mild 70-degree day, the inside of a parked vehicle can reach 104 degrees in just 30 minutes. On hotter days, interior temperatures can exceed 130-150 degrees, even with cracked windows. A child’s body heats up 3 to 5 times faster than an adult’s, making them especially vulnerable to heatstroke, which can set in within minutes.
School and Transport Vehicles Are Not Exempt
While personal vehicles account for most cases, tragedies have also occurred on daycare buses, school vans, and other transport vehicles. In some instances, children have been left unattended for hours after being overlooked during drop-offs. These situations are 100% preventable with proper protocols, staff training, and vehicle checks.
Accountability and Liability
When a child is injured or killed due to being left in a hot vehicle, liability can fall on the individual and/or institution responsible. This includes:
- Daycare providers
- School districts
- Transport companies
- Individual drivers
Negligence may include failing to conduct a vehicle sweep, ignoring required safety checks, or lacking appropriate child-tracking procedures. Civil claims can hold these parties accountable and drive systemic improvements.
How Often Does This Happen?
According to NoHeatstroke.org, over 950 children have died from vehicular heatstroke since 1998. These incidents occur across all regions and socioeconomic groups. They peak in the summer but happen year-round. Awareness and education are key in stopping these preventable tragedies.
What Can Be Done?
Parents, schools, and caregivers can take action:
- Implement a visual check system for all transport vehicles.
- Use child tracking systems and sign-in/sign-out sheets.
- Place reminders like a stuffed animal in the front seat when a child is onboard.
- Train drivers and caregivers to follow strict protocols.
- HGD Law Firm: Advocating for Accountability and Prevention
At HGD Law Firm, we believe no family should suffer the loss of a child due to a preventable mistake. Our team stands ready to hold negligent parties accountable and advocate for better safety practices in schools and transport providers. We are committed to making sure every child returns home safe.
As this school year begins, let’s prioritize safety as much as we do academics. Because no backpack, lunchbox, or school supply compares to the life of a child.
Back to School. Back to Safety. Always Forward.
