Bus transportation can be a convenient option when traveling for business or pleasure. By letting someone else take care of the driving and navigating, you can relax and enjoy the trip or get work done while you are traveling.
But while bus travel is often an ideal option, there are still risks associated with traveling by bus. Though many bus companies provide safe transport for passengers, incidents and accidents do happen. When they do, it is important to understand the duties of a bus company and understand your rights should you be injured.
The Duties of a Bus Company
When you climb on a bus to take a trip, the owner of the bus and the bus driver owe you certain duties, just like any other driver with whom you ride. Though it is recognized that the operation of a bus is not as smooth as that of a car, a bus company should avoid unusual movements and transport their passengers using safe, well-maintained vehicles and equipment.
Avoiding Unusual Movements
When traveling by bus, the standard jerks and rolls that come along with operating such a large vehicle are expected by passengers. Unusual movements are those that are of a more violent nature then those commonly experienced in bus travel. Violent vehicle movements may include:
- stopping short
- taking turns at too high a speed
- swerving
When these violent movements throw you to the floor or out of your seat causing injury, the bus company may have breached its duty to you as a passenger.
Providing Safe Equipment
A bus company must provide its passengers with safe, sound and well-maintained equipment. This includes both interior and mechanical soundness. If a passenger falls due to a wet floor in the coach’s bathroom, which the driver knew about, the bus company may be liable for the injuries that passenger sustains. If passengers are injured due to a blown out tire while traveling on the highway, the bus company may also found to be liable to its passengers. By operating unsafe equipment and transporting passengers in a vehicle that is not well-maintained, bus companies may breach their duty to their passengers. As a result, a personal injury lawsuit may be appropriate.
Injured in a Bus Accident? Contact Maynard, O’Connor, Smith & Catalinotto Today!
While bus travel is often safe and convenient form of transportation for patrons, on occasion accidents can occur. It is important to know your rights against a bus company if you are injured while traveling as a passenger and patron.
If you have been injured in a bus accident in Albany, Johnstown, Saugerties, Amsterdam, Catskill, Gloversville, Hudson or anywhere in the Capital Region of Upstate NY, contact the experienced personal injury lawyers at Maynard, O’Connor, Smith & Catalinotto, LLP. Our lawyers are skilled in handling personal injury accident claims and have years of experience representing clients involved in motor vehicle accidents. We are conversant in the unique aspects of bringing suit against a bus company and will do what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve.
Call us at (800) 721-3553 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free case review and consultation today.
Looking for additional insight about pursuing a personal injury case? These resources are a helpful place to start:
How Much is My NY Personal Injury Case Worth? – This is a question we’re asked a lot! If you’re weighing your options when it comes to pursuing compensation, this is a must read.
Will My Personal Injury Case Go To Trial? – Wondering if your case will have to go to trial in order to get you the compensation you’re seeking? The choice is ultimately up to you. Learn about alternative options so you know what to expect when it comes to reaching a settlement.
How to Find The Right Personal Injury Lawyer To Represent You – Choosing a lawyer can be challenging, but having an experienced attorney on your side can benefit you greatly when it comes to pursuing compensation. Read tips for finding a personal injury lawyer that’s a good fit for you.
Editor’s note: This content was original published in 2015 but has been updated as of October 2019.
