Parents are often plagued with worries about their children's safety but have to put some level of trust into the school system as buses transport children from home to class. That's why getting word that your child has been in a car accident while on the school bus can be extremely traumatic for both parents and the child.

A recent news story covered such an incident that happened early this week. According to police, five children were hospitalized after a school bus crashed on a Houston freeway. A spokeswoman for the school district said the accident happened during the morning hours on Interstate 45.

According to officials, the children were taken to Texas Children's Hospital as a precaution. They say there were no serious injuries as a result of the crash. The children came from two elementary schools as well as an early childhood center.

As the crash is being investigated and more information is released, parents may consider filing a personal injury claim against the bus company if negligence appears to be a cause of the accident. Although the children in this crash were not seriously injured, minor injuries resulting from a vehicle accident can often have long-term effects on a person, especially a child. Symptoms, such as back and neck aches, could linger for years to come and could negative impact a person's quality of life. Families may be faced with growing medical bills that result from such car accidents and compensation can often help alleviate the pressure brought on by long-term expenses.

Source: KRIS-TV, "5 Injured in Houston School Bus Crash," Jan. 23, 2012