Houston Bus Accidents Attorney
In 2013, Americans took 10.7 billion trips on public transportation, including buses. When we ride a bus, whether it is a charter or city bus, or we send our kids off on their school bus, we trust our safety to the drivers and operators. Buses carry precious cargo. So, they should be well maintained, drivers should be properly trained, and drivers who cannot follow the rules of the road should be dismissed. When bus accidents happen, a lot of people can get hurt.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and other regulatory agencies set rules that bus companies and drivers must follow. The FMCSA sets time limits on how long drivers can work and driver licensing requirements. Bus owners and operators owe a duty to their passengers to provide a safe bus with safe drivers.
Causes of Houston Bus Accidents
Many bus accidents are avoidable, and bus accident related injuries are preventable if safety measures are in place. Bus accidents can be caused by driver error, or any of the following:
- Allowing drivers who aren’t trained to operate the bus
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Improper bus maintenance
- Drunk driving
- Failing to install and maintain emergency exits and other safety devices
- Allowing drivers with poor driving records behind the wheel
- Tired or overworked drivers
- Distracted driving including texting or talking on the phone while driving
Buses are heavy, which makes them harder to stop, and means they cause more damage when they crash. Also, passengers may not be belted, and their bags may not be secured. In the event of a crash, people may be thrown from their seats, and bags can fly loose, hitting other passengers.
Bus accidents can cause significant harm
Any kind of highway crash can leave a person seriously injured. Bus crashes are no exception. Bus crashes can cause serious injuries including:
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Mental anguish, pain, and suffering
If a bus owner or driver fails to provide the safe ride owed to the passengers, they may be held responsible for the harms they cause. These can include the cost of medical care and lost wages.
Contact an Experienced Houston Bus Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, contact Chelsie King Garza for a free consultation today. Every case is different and must be thoroughly investigated. Chelsie King Garza will work hard for you.
