Why Are Bus Accidents So Dangerous?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the number of people killed and injured in bus accidents during 2015 increased from the number in 2014. During 2015, 295 people died and 24,000 people were injured in traffic accidents involving buses. When you get on a school bus, whether it is a school bus, transit bus, metro bus, or tour bus, you do not expect to be in a traffic accident. However, you are at risk for an accident on a bus just as you are whenever you get on the road in your vehicle.
Why Are Bus Accidents Dangerous for Passengers?
When you are a passenger on a bus, you have no control over how the bus operates. You are at the mercy of the bus driver and other parties. However, the bus itself is also a problem that you cannot avoid. Because of the lack of seat belts, thin roofs, windows the pop out easily, and lack of protection from side impacts, passengers can suffer traumatic and life-threatening injuries in a bus crash.
Rollover accidents can be especially dangerous because passengers are “tossed around” the interior of the bus or ejected from the bus. Side impact crash can also be very dangerous because the sides of the bus can “crumple” leaving the passengers with very little or no protection from the impact of the other vehicle or object.
Common injuries in bus accidents include:
- Head injuries, including Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) and concussions
- Back and spinal cord injuries, including partial and full paralysis
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Internal bleeding and damage to internal organs
- Broken bones and fractures
- Disfigurement and scars from burns and other injuries
- Permanent disabilities that can prevent victims from returning to work or their normal daily activities
Damages in a Bus Accident Case
The compensation you can recover for a bus accident claim depends on several factors, including the type and severity of your injury. Common damages that may apply in your case include:
- Medical bills — You are entitled to be reimbursed for the amount you spent on medical costs for your injuries. You may also be entitled to recover compensation for future medical costs if you require ongoing medical treatment or personal care.
- Loss of Income — You are also entitled to be reimbursed for your lost wages. You may also be entitled to recover compensation for future lost income or a loss of earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from working.
- Pain and Suffering Damages — Monetary settlements for noneconomic damages are intended to compensate you for your physical and emotional suffering and pain.
- Other Damages — Each case is different; therefore, you may be entitled to compensation for other damages. Our bus accident lawyers can discuss damages and compensation in detail during your free legal consultation.
Fresno Personal Injury Attorneys
Our bus accident lawyers assist clients throughout the Central California Valley area. If you have been injured, call Torem & Associates at (888) 500-5000to request your free consultation with one of our attorneys. You may also contact our office by using the contact form on our website.
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