Bus accidents can occur from a number of causes. Anything from driver fatigue to bad road conditions to mechanical failure can result in a crash where people often sustain life altering, and sometimes, fatal injuries. For this reason, bus companies are required by law to ensure their employees are trained and certified to move passengers, so as to provide safety for everyone on the road.
In some cases, where bus companies fail to follow regulations and it causes catastrophe, they are deemed legally liable to compensate the losses of other parties involved in the crash. That includes injuries and other damages, as well as consequent expenses. However, most big bus companies will try anything they can to weasel out from under this obligation. Every responsible citizen should be aware of the two main bus accident causes, so that they keep themselves and loved ones safe.
Negligent/Reckless Driving
A big number of accidents across the country can be attributed to negligence or recklessness on at least one driver’s part. Many bus drivers lack even the qualification to operate such vehicles. At other times, they may drive too fast for the road and weather conditions to justify, use their cell phones while behind the wheel, or all-out ignore the rules of the road. Examples of reckless conduct include the following.
- Operating the vehicle without proper qualifications and training, and effectively endangering other people’s lives
- Speeding in order to get to the destination faster
- Using a device that distracts them from the road ahead
- Driving while impaired by the effects of alcohol and/or drugs
Vehicle Failure
Buses need regular maintenance, especially if they are frequently driven long distances. When a driver or bus company neglects this side of things, and essentially fails to do their job, serious accidents can ensue. The more poorly maintained a bus, the likelier it is to break down or malfunction in a crucial situation. If this causes and accident, then people can get hurt. The following types of vehicle failure are known to cause bus accidents.
- Tire blowouts
- Steering failure
- Brake failure
Getting a competent bus accident attorney on your team can help you successfully pursue the compensation you may be owed because of a bus driver’s negligence or recklessness. City bus accident settlements may not always be in the cards, but effective litigation can get you your just entitlements.