What Are the Common Causes of Public Bus Accidents?

Public transportation, such as buses, provides millions of people with a convenient and cost-effective way to travel. While a bus is a relatively safe mode of transportation, public bus accidents still occur and often are deadly.

Therefore, your safety is paramount, even when taking a bus. You can also be struck by a bus if you walk, cycle, or even if you stand and wait for one.

That’s why it’s helpful to find out more about the common reasons behind bus accidents. Speak with our legal team and read on for more information about: Why do these accidents happen? How can they be prevented?

Driver Error

One of the most common causes of public bus accidents is driver error. Driver error can involve mistakes made by the bus driver or other motorists sharing the road.

Common driver errors include:

• Speeding
• Failing to yield
• Following too closely
• Improper lane changes
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

To reduce the risk of driver-related accidents, public transportation agencies should emphasize hiring processes that carefully vet an applicant’s background as well as ongoing training.

Mechanical Failure

Buses are complex machines that require regular maintenance to remain in good working order. Mechanical failures can lead to accidents and pose a significant safety risk for both passengers and pedestrians, and other drivers.

Common mechanical issues include:

• Brake failure
• Tire blowouts
• Steering problems
• Engine malfunctions.

To minimize the risk of mechanical failure, public transportation officials should establish routine maintenance schedules and make sure that replacement parts are readily available.

Poor Weather Conditions

Severe weather conditions can also contribute to public bus accidents. Heavy rain, snow, ice, and fog all have the potential to create dangerous driving conditions.

To reduce the risk of an accident in bad weather, bus drivers should receive proper and ongoing training on operating their vehicles during weather extremes

Road Conditions

Poorly maintained roads or inadequate road infrastructure is also a contributing factor in public bus accidents.

Potholes, debris, poorly-marked lanes or intersections, and lack of proper signage can make it difficult for bus drivers to drive. If they are not driving as safely as they should, it can ultimately lead to a personal injury lawsuit.

Distracted Driving

Like any other driver, bus operators may get distracted behind the wheel. Distractions can come from inside or outside the vehicle.

Some of these distractions include:

• Texting while driving
• Adjusting controls on the dash, or
• Focusing on passengers or other activities instead of the road.

To combat distracted driving, bus operators should be trained on the dangers of distractions and encouraged to avoid multitasking while driving.

Why You Should Speak to a Bus Accident Attorney If You Have a Bus Accident Claim

When you’re injured in a public bus accident, you may be facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, emotional stress, or physical suffering. In these situations, it’s important to understand why hiring a lawyer can be beneficial to your case.

Get your legal questions answered.

Public transportation accidents often involve several parties. These parties may involve bus drivers, transit agencies, government entities, and other passengers.

Determining liability and filing a legal claim is an involved process. An experienced lawyer has the knowledge and resources necessary to untangle the complicated web of regulations that relate to public transportation incidents.

Preserve the evidence

After an accident, it’s important to gather and preserve the evidence that supports your accident claim. A personal injury lawyer knows what information is needed to build a strong and indisputable case.

They will guide you through the steps of gathering documents, photos, witness statements, and similar data.

Receive a reasonable claim amount.

In many cases, an insurance company will attempt to settle quickly – for less than what your claim is worth.

Insurance companies have trained adjusters and, more importantly, “deep pockets.” A skilled bus accident lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair and equitable compensation for your injuries and losses.

Determine the full extent of your damages:

Your lawyer will assess the true cost of your injuries by considering factors such as medical expenses (both current and future), lost wages due to missed work or loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

They’ll make sure to account for all the pertinent damages so you can receive maximum compensation.

Manage deadlines and filing requirements:

Personal injury claims involve strict deadlines; if they aren’t met, your claim may be jeopardized or denied. A knowledgeable attorney will keep track of these deadlines so all the paperwork is filed properly and on time.

Receive the needed legal and emotional support.

In the event your case requires litigation, a lawyer with experience in public transportation accident cases can present the evidence of your case persuasively. They will advocate for your best interests in court. They also can provide emotional support during a challenging time.

Contact a Bus Accident Attorney Now

Public bus accidents result from a variety of factors, including driver error, mechanical failure, poor weather conditions, inadequate road infrastructure, and distracted driving. To file a claim in Nevada, contact Cloward Trial Lawyers right away. The sooner you do so, the sooner you can move forward and heal – financially and personally.