A bus accident, just like a truck accident, can be devastating. Both of these vehicles are huge, and can cause catastrophic injuries – or worse. When someone is in this type of accident, they can be hurt so badly they may wind up accumulating hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills, and may never be able to work again.

A Miami bus accident lawyer with Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh will have the experience it takes to help you obtain the maximum amount of compensation possible. You will be able to count on us to provide aggressive, effective legal representation at all times. Our firm’s personal injury attorneys have the skill and resources needed to give you the best chance of achieving a positive result. You will not pay a thing unless we are successful.

If you would like to learn more about how we may be able to help, give us a call for a free consultation.

Bus Accident Statistics

More than 2,700 accidents involving buses and commercial trucks occurred in 2019, leading to nearly 3,100 deaths. These crashes injured more than 60,000 people, and either damaged or destroyed more than 122,000 vehicles.

While government statistics typically lump buses and trucks together, there is an exception made for school buses. There were 54 fatalities resulting from school bus accidents in 2020. While this was half the number of the previous year, it appears the reduction was due to the decreased number of school buses on the road that year due to the pandemic.

Types of Busses Involved in Accidents

The majority of bus crashes involve school buses, which account for about 70% of all bus crashes. Most of these crashes occur when the bus is stopped or when it is backing up, rather than when it is in motion.

Other types of buses that are involved in crashes include transit buses, charter buses, and tour buses. These types of buses are more likely to be involved in crashes that occur while the bus is in motion, and they are also more likely to be involved in multi-vehicle crashes.

Injuries Caused by Bus Collisions

Bus accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, depending on the severity of the crash and the specific circumstances. An attorney in Miami could Some common injuries that can be caused by bus accidents include:

Head Injuries

These can range from minor concussions to more serious brain injuries. Head injuries can be caused by impact with hard surfaces or by being thrown around inside the bus.

Neck and Back Injuries

These will often include strains, sprains, and herniated discs. They can be caused by the sudden force of the crash, or by being thrown into seats or other internal components of the bus.

Fractures

Any time a bus hits a passenger vehicle, the driver and occupants will be at a high risk of fractures and broken bones, either due to the impact itself or striking other objects if they’re thrown from the car.

Soft Tissue Injuries

These can include bruises, cuts, and abrasions.

Internal Injuries

Injuries to internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys, can be fatal if not addressed as soon as possible.

Causes of Bus Crashes

There are many different factors that can contribute to bus accidents. Some common causes of bus accidents include:

Driver Error

Bus drivers can make mistakes that lead to accidents, such as failing to yield the right of way, speeding, or driving while distracted or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Vehicle Defects

Bus accidents can also be caused by defects in the bus itself, such as faulty brakes, tires, or steering systems.

Road Conditions

Poor conditions, such as potholes, debris in the road or slippery surfaces can contribute to bus accidents.

Poor Weather

Inclement weather, such as rain, snow, or fog, can make it more difficult for bus drivers to see and navigate, increasing the risk of an accident.

Congestion

Heavy traffic or congestion can increase the risk of a bus accident, as there may be more opportunities for collisions.

Pedestrian or Bicycle Accidents

Buses can also be involved in accidents with pedestrians or bicycles, either because the pedestrian or bicycle was in the roadway or because the bus driver did not see them.

It is important to note that bus accidents can be caused by a combination of factors. As a result, you will need an attorney in Miami working on your behalf to investigate the specific circumstances of the bus accident in order to determine its cause.

Liability in a Bus Wreck

In a bus accident, there may be multiple parties that could be held liable (legally responsible) for the accident and any resulting injuries or damages, the legal term for your financial losses. Possible liable parties in a bus accident could include:

The Bus Driver

If the bus driver was negligent in operating the bus, they may be held liable for the accident. This could include situations where the driver was distracted, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or driving in a reckless manner.

The Bus Company

The bus company may be held liable if it is found that they were negligent in hiring, training, or supervising the driver, or if they allowed the driver to operate the bus in an unsafe condition.

The Manufacturer of the Bus or its Parts

If the accident was caused by a defect in the bus or one of its parts, the manufacturer of the bus or the defective part may be held liable.

In order to hold any of these parties liable, your attorney must show they caused or contributed to the accident.

What is My Bus Collision Case Worth?

It is difficult to determine the value of a bus accident case without knowing the specific circumstances of the accident and the injuries and damages that were sustained. In general, the value of an injury case is determined by the amount of damages that were incurred as a result of the accident. These damages can include:

Medical Expenses

This can include the cost of hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and other medical treatment.

Lost Wages

If you cannot work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for the wages you’ve lost – both now and in the future as well.

Pain and Suffering

You may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering you experienced as a result of the accident.

Contact KMW Today to Speak With a Miami Bus Accident Attorney

A Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh Miami bus accident lawyer can accurately calculate all of your damages and get you the money you deserve. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us.