$175,000 Settlement Reached in Horry County School Bus Negligence Case
At the Bailey Law Firm, our mission is to stand up for families and ensure our community’s children are protected when they are under the care of public institutions. We are proud to announce that attorney Tyler Bailey has successfully secured a $175,000 settlement on behalf of a mother and her eight-year-old daughter following a deeply troubling school bus incident in Horry County.
The Incident: A Failure of Safety and Care
In August 2023, an eight-year-old Pee Dee Elementary School student fell asleep on her ride home, causing her to miss her designated stop. Fearful of nearby dogs at an alternate drop-off location, the frightened young child hesitated to exit the bus.
Rather than ensuring the child’s safety, the bus driver closed the door on her arm and drove the vehicle in reverse for nearly 30 seconds while the child remained caught in the door.
Standing Up for Accountability
When public systems fail to protect young students, parents deserve answers and justice. The child’s mother, Stephanie Floyd-McInnis, chose to take legal action to hold the school district accountable and protect other children from experiencing a similar ordeal.
“As a mother, my first priority is to make sure that my daughter is safe and cared for at all times,” said Floyd-McInnis. “This bus driver and the school system failed my child in this instance… I felt it was important to step up for my daughter and to also ensure that other parents were made aware of what transpired on that bus.”
Holding Systems Accountable
Attorney Tyler Bailey represented the family in filing a federal lawsuit to demand accountability and systemic change within school transportation.
“No parent should have to wonder whether their child is safe on the ride home from school,” said attorney Tyler Bailey. “Stephanie stood up for her daughter, and in doing so she stood up for every child on those buses. This resolution holds the system accountable and forces a conversation about the safeguards our schools owe these kids.”
A federal judge approved the $175,000 settlement, bringing a resolution to the civil lawsuit and providing closure to the family.
Dedicated to Protecting Your Family’s Rights
Every child deserves a safe trip to and from school. When negligence compromises a child’s safety, our legal team is dedicated to giving victims a voice and holding negligent parties responsible.
If your child or family member has suffered harm due to negligence, contact the Bailey Law Firm today to discuss your rights and learn how we can help.
