Bus Accidents
With an increase in traffic congestion and escalating gas prices, more and more people are opting for mass transportation. In the United States, buses are consistently a convenient and cheap form of transportation for thousands of citizens. While less common than passenger vehicle crashes, bus accidents do happen. And these accidents can cause serious injury—even death.
It is a bus driver’s responsibility to both passengers and other drivers to exercise a high level of care when operating such a large vehicle. A bus is considered a “common carrier,” meaning it is a public utility that is in business to transport people. This means its drivers must drive with the utmost care and responsibility—more so than drivers of an ordinary vehicle or “private carriers.”
Yet despite this increased responsibility, bus drivers are not always properly trained, and do not always drive as safely as they should. The result can leave many people seriously injured or killed, considering the size and weight of these massive vehicles. In recent years, a number of bus accidents have occurred, with children and the elderly being the common victims of these types of accidents.
School bus accidents
School bus-related accidents send 17,000 children to emergency rooms each year, reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Most school buses do not restraint systems or seatbelts, because they can be risky and have the potential to cause internal injuries to tiny bodies during a crash.
Causes
Bus accidents can happen for several reasons. Maybe it was the bus driver’s fault if he or she was driving too fast, or driving recklessly while transporting passengers. Or maybe there was some sort damage or danger on the road, like slick pavement or rocks in the road. Many bus accidents also result from the negligence or careless driving of a third party. Maybe the driver of a passenger car cuts off a bus or trails too close behind the vehicle and causes an accident.
Injuries
Bus accidents can result in serious or fatal injuries including:
- Head injuries
- Amputations
- Brain and spinal cord injuries
- Fractured bones
- Burn injuries
- Cuts and bruising
- Internal injuries
Regardless of who caused the accident, if you or a loved one was hurt in an accident involving a bus, you are entitled to be compensated for any injuries you and other victims have suffered. But keep in mind that bus companies and local governments vigorously defend bus accidents. Dealing with a bus company, the local government, or the insurance company in the aftermath of an accident is very different than dealing with an insurance company of a private passenger vehicle.
At the Shelnutt Law Firm, our experienced lawyers take every case very seriously. We are dedicated to your claim and will fight to recover the damages you deserve. If you or a loved one lives in the Gadsden area and has been seriously injured or killed an accident, please contact our offices today.
601 South 5th Street, Gadsden, AL 35901
Schedule YOUR FREE Consultation!
800.8.INJURY
(256) 547-4988
601 South 5th Street
Gadsden, AL 35901
