Thousands of people in the Houston metro area rely on city and school buses each day to get to and from work or school or travel longer distances on shuttles or Greyhounds. It’s thought to be an affordable, safe alternative to having your own vehicle or using other methods of transportation, but due to their size and weight, bus collisions are particularly dangerous and can lead to severe or even fatal injuries to bus passengers, people in other vehicles, and pedestrians who may be crossing the street or walking on the sidewalk. The past few years have seen an increase in accidents involving buses, and nearly 30,000 people are injured each year in bus collisions nationwide. We are exploring the leading causes of bus accidents in Houston as well as what you need to do if you have been injured as a passenger or in your own vehicle.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents and injuries are most often the fault of the bus itself whether it’s the driver, the company, or conditions on the bus, for which the company may be held liable.
Bus Driver Negligence
Bus drivers work long hours and are held to tight schedules. These conditions can lead to them driving in a way that could cause a serious accident:
- Speeding
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Driving while intoxicated
- Distracted driving
- Fatigue or falling asleep
Bus Company Negligence
The company that owns the bus or the city transit authority may also be responsible for the accident:
- Failing to train drivers;
- Failing to run background checks on drivers;
- Lack of inspection
- Damaged or poorly maintained buses
- Overworking drivers
Non-Collisions
Injuries can happen on the bus even without a collision occurring and can be caused by:
- Slipping
- Tripping
- Sudden stops
- Violence
- Unsafe conditions, such as damaged seats or hand-holds
- Overcrowding
Because there may be several factors that caused the collision and your injuries, several parties could be liable for paying damages.
Rights of Bus Passengers
As a passenger on a bus, you deserve safe transportation to your destination, and when a bus driver or the bus company is negligent and causes an injury or even wrongful death, you have the right to seek compensation.
Common Injuries from Bus Accidents
- Traumatic brain injury
- Broken bones and sprains
- Soft tissue damage
- Whiplash
- Spine and back injuries
- Lacerations
- Organ damage
These injuries often result in extensive medical expenses and require time off work. It’s not uncommon for permanent disability to result from a bus accident. Working with a personal injury attorney who will fight to hold those responsible accountable for your pain and suffering is essential to receiving the damages you deserve.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Bus Accident Lawyer in Houston Today
If you were injured while a passenger on a bus or if you were in an accident with a bus in your vehicle or as a pedestrian, you may be entitled to compensation. Reach out to our experienced team of personal injury lawyers for a free case consultation by calling 888-335-0015 or filling out the form below to get started.