Bus accidents are often severe and fatal. The tragic consequences of bus collisions are often due to the fact that buses are huge and heavy vehicles. When a bus hits a passenger vehicle, bicyclist or pedestrian, there may be serious injuries or even deaths. According to the Department of Transportation, there were 4,440 buses and large trucks involved in deadly crashes in 2016.
Buses weigh tens of thousands of pounds when fully loaded with passengers. If a bus hits you, it is important to determine who is responsible for the crash. Here are a few of the most common causes of large bus wrecks:
1. Bus driver negligence
There are many ways that bus operators may be negligent in crashes, including:
- Violating hours of service laws by driving too long without proper breaks
- Texting or talking on the phone while driving
- Speeding, passing or turning unlawfully or dangerously
- Driving aggressively or recklessly
However, even if the bus driver is responsible for causing the accident, the bus company may ultimately be liable.
2. Bus company negligence
One of the main causes of bus accidents in California is the bus company. Charter, tour, school and public transportation buses may all have negligent companies. Bus companies are responsible for complying with federal regulations, training drivers and maintaining their fleets. When a bus company fails to do any of these things, it may result in accidents.
3. Bus driver fatigue
Fatigue is a serious problem for bus drivers. This cause of bus crashes is actually a subcategory of company and driver negligence. Bus drivers are often too tired because they drive long hours without taking the breaks they need. If a company forces a driver to work too long or the driver turns a blind eye to federal regulations, it can result in a driver becoming too tired to safely operate a vehicle.
Holding the right party liable for your injuries is crucial for recovering after a collision.