When you drop your child off at daycare, you expect them to be cared for, protected, and returned home safely. But as the summer heat ramps up, daycare transportation risks, especially leaving children in hot vehicles, can lead to tragic and completely preventable outcomes. At The Button Law Firm, we’ve seen the heartbreaking consequences of daycare negligence, and we’re here to help parents stay informed and empowered.
If your child’s daycare provides transportation, whether it’s for school pickups, field trips, or summer activities, it’s critical to ask the right questions. The truth is, transportation negligence at daycares is on the rise. We want to help you stay one step ahead.
Here are four key safety questions every parent should ask their daycare provider before letting their child get on board.
1. What Is the Condition of the Daycare Van?
Vehicles used daily need constant upkeep, and daycare vans are no exception. Safe transportation starts with properly maintained equipment. A reliable daycare should be inspecting their vehicles regularly, checking things like:
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Tires
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Brakes
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Turn signals and headlights
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Fluid levels
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Car seats, booster seats, and any other child safety restraints
If the van looks rundown or you’re not sure when it was last serviced, speak up. Regular maintenance is non-negotiable when it comes to protecting children on the road.
2. What Is the Daycare’s Transportation Policy?
A well-run daycare should have a clear, written transportation policy. This document should cover who’s allowed to drive, how often vehicles are inspected, and what steps staff take to keep kids safe during transit.
Don’t be afraid to ask:
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Are drivers screened and background-checked?
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Do drivers have valid licenses and proper training?
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Is there a system for tracking each child during transport?
If a provider can’t answer these questions confidently, that’s a red flag.
3. How Are Children Supervised in the Vehicle?
A single driver transporting a full van of young children isn’t just overwhelming—it’s dangerous. Proper adult-to-child ratios must be maintained at all times, especially in a moving vehicle.
Ask your provider:
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How many adults are present during transport?
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Are staff trained in emergency response?
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How do they prevent distractions while driving?
Supervision isn’t just about preventing roughhousing—it’s about ensuring someone is watching and ready to act if something goes wrong.
4. How Does the Driver Communicate With Parents?
Communication is key. If a driver is running late, rerouted, or encounters an emergency, you should know about it immediately. Daycares should have a system in place, whether it’s texts, calls, or a parent app, to alert families in real time.
Ask about:
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How they handle delays or emergencies
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Whether parents are notified if a child is absent from transport
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How you can reach the driver or staff during a trip
You deserve peace of mind knowing your child’s safety is being prioritized from the moment they leave the daycare to when they arrive at their destination.
Questions About Daycare Transportation Safety? We’re Here for You.
At The Button Law Firm, we help families hold negligent daycare centers accountable when they put children at risk, especially in preventable transportation tragedies. If you have concerns about how your child’s daycare is handling transportation, don’t wait for something to go wrong. Ask questions, demand clear answers, and speak up for your child’s safety.
And if you ever need legal guidance or want to report daycare negligence, our team is here to help.
Contact The Button Law Firm today to speak with our team about your concerns. Your child’s safety is worth it. You can give us a call at (214) 699-4409 or email us at intake@buttonlawfirm.com.
