Estimates indicate that some 700 million people in America are transported by bus each year. Whether they are traveling by school bus, public transit bus, charter bus, or a tour bus, these riders count on the driver to help them safely get them from one location to the next. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. Accidents do occur, and sometimes they result in serious injury or death for the passengers. If you or someone you love has been injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to collect compensation for your injuries.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
As with auto accidents, driver error is the most common cause of bus accidents. Other common causes include:
- Driver fatigue;
- Poor bus or equipment maintenance;
- Driving while under the influence;
- Inadequate training;
- Improper screening of employees;
- Improper loading; and
- Overloading.
Of course, driver error does not always mean that it was the bus operator who made a mistake; it can also apply to other road users. For example, another road user may be intoxicated and swerve into the path of the bus. Alternatively, other drivers may cut the bus off, forcing the bus to either brake or swerve, either of which could potentially cause an accident. If an accident does happen to you or someone you love, it is crucial that an investigation is conducted to determine the exact causes behind the accident. In some cases, there may be multiple negligent parties, which could further complicate an already complex claim filing process.
Potential Consequences of a Bus Accident
Undoubtedly, the most severe consequence of a bus accident is death. Estimates indicate that this is the consequence that is suffered by approximately 45 passengers per 100,000 accidents. In these situations, the surviving family may be owed compensation for a wrongful death. However, there are also many severe but non-fatal injuries that may occur, including:
- Broken bones;
- Spinal injuries;
- Traumatic brain injury;
- Whiplash and other neck injuries;
- Scarring or disfigurement;
- Lacerations and contusions;
- Internal injuries; and
- Burns.
In addition, victims may suffer emotional injuries, such as pain and suffering or post-traumatic stress disorder. These, too, may be compensable.
Pursuing Compensation for Your Accident
If you or someone you love has experienced a bus accident that resulted in injury or fatality, the team at Walsh, Knippen & Cetina, Chartered can help. Our experienced Wheaton bus accident injury lawyers will protect your rights, and we will fight for the full compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation to learn more. Call 630-462-1980 today.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22974682
https://www.ntsb.gov/safety/safety-studies/Pages/SR1101.aspx
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/241809228_Type_of_Motor_Carrier_and_Driver_History_in_Fatal_Bus_Crashes
