Bus Accident Attorneys
Bus accident lawsuits are very complex. Unlike auto accidents where fault is usually determined between the drivers, a bus accident can have many responsible parties, as well as many victims. Victims may include:
- Bus passengers
- Drivers and passengers of other vehicles
- Pedestrians and by-standers
- Bus drivers
The type of bus involved will determine which laws apply to the accident, who may be held responsible, and the statute of limitation for filing. Some types of buses commonly involved in accidents include:
- School buses
- Chartered buses
- Buses used for public transportation in cities
- Buses used for interstate travel
There are a wide range of possible responsible parties including individuals, corporations, and government entities. Possible responsible parties include:
- Bus drivers
- Other drivers
- Bus companies
- School districts
- Local governments
- Mass transit systems
Pedestrian and by-standers.
The greatest danger from buses is to people standing within ten feet of the bus. Within this area it is difficult for bus drivers and often other drivers to see pedestrians, especially children. 80% of children killed in school bus accidents are injured while boarding or exiting the bus. This can be the fault of the school bus driver or careless drivers of other vehicles.
Many bus accidents are caused by poor safety conditions. Bus drivers who drive too fast in order to accommodate unreasonable schedules, lax drug and alcohol screening and enforcement within busing companies or school districts, and failure to maintain buses all contribute to dangerous conditions. Most school buses do not have seat belts to help prevent injury in the rare instance of a crash.
Bus accident lawsuits are complicated and can include multiple victims, responsible parties, and special sets of laws. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus accident, contact an experienced bus accident attorney today by finding your state below.
Click here for other types of traffic accident law.