Many school districts are in financial crisis and are forced to make difficult decisions to cut costs. Pupil transportation is one area that often is evaluated for potential cost savings.
Many districts have opted to eliminate transportation for sporting or club activities. With any change relating to pupil transportation, it is important to understand that the district’s liability is often affected as well. It is critical to have a thorough understanding of the exposures in order to minimize potential liability.
Before implementing changes in transportation-related policies, districts should contact their property and liability company to ensure they are not adding more risk and increasing their liability with their intended transportation solution.
If a district is eliminating or altering transportation for sporting or club activities, but is finding and coordinating volunteer drivers, the district could be assuming the risk of those volunteer drivers and their actions while driving. Parental carpools should not be overseen or managed by the district, as it can increase the district’s exposure. If bus transportation is eliminated, it is recommended that parents coordinate the carpooling.