6 External Factors That Can Lead to Bus Accidents
Buses are one of the most convenient means of transport; not only are they cost-effective, but they are also very accessible and environmentally friendly. People have always believed buses to be a safer alternative than ridesharing, which is why they are still used for most schools in the United States. About 700 million people travel by bus, and while you can be assured of conscious safety, this is not always the case. In New York, Albany County reported about 156 bus accidents and 172 deaths, and injuries are still on the rise by 15%.
The common type of bus accidents are hit-and-runs, head-on collisions, rear-end collisions, T-bones, and rollovers. Filing a lawsuit in these cases is essential to compensate for the monetary losses and the non-monetary (emotional and psychological) ones. In this article, you will learn why these accidents occur and how reliable law firms and attorneys can help you in this regard:
Why Do Bus Accidents Occur?
The FMCSA cites about 15,000 bus accidents annually, causing deaths and severe injuries. In cases where there is no injury, it caused trauma and PTSD from the accidents. New York reports about 320,000 accidents, of which about 7,500 occur in Albany. You need professional lawyer assistants who are not only experienced and trained in this regard but can also keep communication open while you focus on physical and mental recovery. One can always consult with an experienced Albany bus accident attorney to access expert skills, resources, and experience in dealing with insurance agencies while ensuring you are continuously updated with information.
They are also empathetic and compassionate, understanding the psychological aftermath of injuries and the much-needed medical assistance. As such, they provide high-end legal advice and representation to investigate the complexities and learn your rights and claims. Given below are certain reasons why accidents may occur:
- Negligent Driving: Bus safety guidelines and regulations have been established to promote a safer bus driving environment, but due to a lack of a rigorous approach to their implementation, safety records always show a negative signal. This occurs typically due to a lack of proper training, so they are not equipped with the right skill set to operate huge vehicles. Overworking employees may also result in sleepy and tired driving.
- Weather Obstructions: Weather is an essential factor in bus accidents, not only because the drivers are driving a massive vehicle but also because the upkeep of the bus may not be at par. Buses are not maintained regularly, thus making them more susceptible to weather inconsistencies.
- Crowding: Crowding people in a public area or on the road may also contribute to accidents, primarily when the area is densely populated. Moreover, overcrowded buses are also subject to a lack of control.
- Distracted Driving: The United States mandates a commercial driver’s license, automatically complying with the federal driving laws and ban on handheld devices. Bus drivers are often distracted with their phones instead of driving or listening to loud music, unruly passengers, and more. Using cell phones is banned in the U.S. for availing a CDL, which may require further investigation into their CDL applicability.
- Aggression: Aggression on the driving platform is always discouraged because it can cause harm to both parties engaged in the driving course. Passenger vehicles sometimes get impatient, and road rage can contribute to aggressive driving. As such, both parties may indulge in aggressive driving when either one denies their right of way. This aspect is dangerous for school buses; reckless driving is a common cause of concern in all of New York.
- Lack of Training & Experience: It is legally required for organisations to employ bus drivers and provide them with the necessary vocational practice, education, and training. A CDL does not replace education or work experience. Only with practice and experience can drivers hone these abilities.
Conclusion
Accidents happen in split seconds; before you know it, your life is turned around for the worse. While bus accidents are less likely than car accidents, this fact must not bar you from the possibility of bus accidents causing mass injury and wrongful death. Buses are heavy vehicles that require exceptional operation control, whether a school bus or a public one.
Although the one of the safest modes of commute, intercity buses, school buses, and transit are the reason for thousands of accidents. Careless actions and negligence cost multiple lives, and a professional attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.
