The Ins and Outs of Bus Accidents
Over 125,000 passengers ride the bus throughout Dallas every single day. In addition, these city buses share the road with countless drivers, pedestrians, and bicycle riders. In light of this, accidents become a question not of “if” but of “when.” Many times, an accident involving a city bus is not the fault of the driver. However, a percentage will be. When injuries are sustained, it’s important to understand the legal factors of the incident. You may be able to recover damages.
Insurance Coverage
City buses typically have a certain amount of insurance. In fact, it’s required by federal law. The amount held is subject to the number of passengers the bus can carry. For a bus with 15 passengers or less, at least $1.5 million in coverage is required. For one with 16 passengers or more, $5 million minimum is required.
In the event of an accident, the city’s insurance policy will kick in. Any damages – both physical and property – will be covered if the bus driver was the primary reason for the accident. It’s not easy to prove negligence; you have to come up with enough evidence.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
The clear majority of vehicular accidents – buses or otherwise – are caused by human error. Someone somewhere wasn’t paying attention to the road or failed to obey traffic signals. Buses, which are classified as commercial vehicles, are subject to federal law. They are filed under the same principles as a truck accident, therefore, you should consult with a truck accident lawyer in Dallas to talk about your potential case.
The most common causes of bus accidents include:
- Fatigue
- Alcohol or drug use
- Maintenance or mechanical issues with the bus
- Defective parts
- Negligence
- Distracted driving
Contact Us
If you’ve been involved in a bus accident, you have a right to fight for your damages. Schedule a consultation with McGilberry & Shirer today at (469) 399-5645. We’re happy to discuss your case!