Bus accidents can cause severe injuries, damage to property, and even death because of the weight and size of buses. Whether a city bus, school bus, charter bus, or tour bus is involved, bus accidents tend to have multiple victims such as passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers.
If yourself or a family member was hurt in a bus accident, you might be owed compensation for healthcare expenses, lost income, and agony and suffering. Knowing your rights under the law and how a claim is filed is the most important thing to ensure you get the amount you are entitled to.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:
1. Driver Negligence
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving (texting, using a GPS, eating)
- Fatigue due to long shifts
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
2. Poor Bus Maintenance
- Faulty brakes or worn-out tires
- Malfunctioning lights or signals
- Steering or engine failures
- Inadequate safety inspections
3. Dangerous Road Conditions
- Poorly maintained roads with potholes or debris
- Icy, wet, or slippery surfaces
- Insufficient lighting or unclear road markings
4. Negligence by Other Drivers
- Vehicles cutting off a bus or failing to yield
- Distracted or reckless drivers causing collisions
- Motorcyclists or cyclists entering the bus’s blind spots
5. Bus Company Negligence
- Failure to properly train drivers
- Overloading buses beyond safe capacity
- Pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic schedules
Common Injuries in Bus Accidents
Due to the lack of seat belts and airbags in most buses, injuries in a bus crash can be severe. Common injuries include:
- Head and brain injuries (concussions, traumatic brain injuries)
- Neck and back injuries (whiplash, spinal cord damage)
- Broken bones and fractures
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
- Internal injuries (damage to organs, internal bleeding)
- Burns and scarring (if fire or explosion occurs)
Who is Liable for a Bus Accident?
Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex because multiple parties may be responsible, including:
1. Bus Driver
- If the driver was negligent (speeding, distracted, impaired, or fatigued)
2. Bus Company or Operator
- If the company failed to maintain the bus or hired an unqualified driver
3. Government Entities
- If the accident involved a public transit bus, the city or transportation authority could be held responsible
4. Other Drivers
- f another vehicle caused the accident by reckless or negligent driving
5. Bus or Auto Parts Manufacturer
- If a defective bus part (such as brakes or steering) contributed to the crash
Steps to Take After a Bus Accident
If you are involved in a bus accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms may appear later.
- Report the Accident – Notify the police and request an accident report.
- Document the Scene – Take photos of damages, injuries, and the accident location.
- Gather Witness Information – Collect names and contact details of passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers who witnessed the accident.
- Obtain Driver and Bus Company Details – Record the bus number, driver’s name, and bus company information.
- Keep Medical Records – Save hospital bills, prescriptions, and doctor’s reports.
- Consult a Bus Accident Lawyer – An attorney can help you navigate insurance claims and legal action.
Filing a Bus Accident Claim
If you were injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation through:
1. Personal Injury Claim
- If the bus driver, company, or another party was at fault, you can file a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
2. Insurance Claims
- Bus companies carry large insurance policies, but their insurers may try to reduce payouts. A lawyer can negotiate a fair settlement.
3. Lawsuits Against Government Entities
- If a city or public transit bus was involved, special procedures and short deadlines may apply. Claims must typically be filed within 6 months in many states.
Types of Compensation Available
If you were injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, therapy)
- Lost Wages (if you were unable to work)
- Pain and Suffering (emotional distress, reduced quality of life)
- Disability and Permanent Injuries
- Property Damage (if your vehicle was involved in the crash)
Why You Need a Bus Accident Lawyer
Bus accident cases can be complicated due to the multiple liable parties, large insurance companies, and strict filing deadlines. A bus accident lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
Determine liability and hold the responsible party accountable
Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement
File a lawsuit if necessary and represent you in court
About the Author
Neil Bhartia
Neil Bhartia isn’t your typical, stuffy attorney that you see on TV. While some have their sights exclusively on money and treat their clients like a number, Neil takes a personal interest in every single client he has. As an empath, Neil understands that people that seek legal help are typically in an involuntary, and stressful situation, and he goes out of his way to diffuse the stress and educate clients on each every detail of the legal process.
