Every day, thousands of Texans rely on buses for transportation. Whether students are heading to school or commuters travel between cities, buses play a crucial role in our state’s transit system. However, when accidents involving these large vehicles occur, the consequences can be devastating. This is why understanding the legal aspects of bus accidents in Texas is of utmost importance.
This post will explore Texas’s complex world of bus accidents, focusing on school and commercial buses. We’ll discuss these cases’ unique challenges, the legal landscape surrounding them, and how victims can protect their rights. Scott Scherr is an experienced Texas attorney, and he and The Payne Law Group have seen firsthand how these accidents can impact individuals and families. We aim to provide valuable information to help you navigate these difficult situations.
School Bus Accidents
School bus accidents are a particular concern for parents and communities across Texas. While school buses are generally considered a safe mode of transportation, accidents do happen, and their impact can be significant.
School bus accidents occur more frequently than many realize. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, over 2,000 school bus-related crashes occurred in 2022. Common causes include:
- Driver error
- Distracted driving
- Poor road conditions
- Vehicle malfunctions
- Weather-related issues
Legal Responsibilities and Potential Injuries:
School districts and bus drivers have a heightened duty of care when transporting students. This includes proper training, vehicle maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols. When these responsibilities are neglected, serious injuries can occur, such as:
- Head and neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue damage
- Emotional trauma
However, many governmental entities, including schools, have some form of immunity for their actions. Accordingly, parents and guardians must understand their rights if their child is injured in a school bus accident. Prompt legal action can help ensure proper compensation for medical bills, ongoing care, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Commercial Bus Accidents
While commercial bus accidents are less frequent than school bus incidents, they often result in more severe consequences due to their size and passenger capacity.
Types, Frequency, and Causes:
Commercial buses in Texas include:
- Charter buses
- Tour buses
- Intercity buses (like Greyhound)
- Municipal transit buses
While exact statistics vary yearly, commercial bus accidents are a significant concern on Texas roads. Common causes include:
- Driver fatigue (especially on long-haul routes)
- Inadequate driver training
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Unsafe road conditions
- Other drivers’ negligence
Liability Issues:
Commercial bus accident cases can be particularly complex due to the number of potentially liable parties:
- Bus companies: They may be held responsible for negligent hiring, inadequate training, or poor maintenance practices.
- Bus drivers: Direct negligence in operating the vehicle can lead to driver liability.
- Manufacturers: The manufacturer could be liable if a defective part contributed to the accident.
- Government entities: Local or state governments might share responsibility in cases involving public transit or poorly maintained roads.
- Other motorists: If another driver’s actions caused or contributed to the accident, they may also be liable.
These cases often involve federal regulations, such as those set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, adding another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings.
Navigating these multifaceted cases can be overwhelming for victims of commercial bus accidents. It’s crucial to work with attorneys experienced in handling complex commercial vehicle accidents to ensure all avenues of compensation are explored.
Types of Damages That May Be Recoverable
In bus accident cases, victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation:
- Economic damages: These include things like medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
- Non-economic damages: These are intangibles such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages: These are usually only offered in cases of extreme negligence.
These are the most common damages awarded in these cases, although your lawyer will be better informed on your situation and can give you more information.
How We Can Help
Scott Scherr understands the complexities of bus accident cases and is committed to helping victims secure the compensation they deserve. We leverage our experience and resources to put you in the best possible position. We prepare to go to trial if necessary while doing all we can to settle your case as quickly and favorably as possible.
Don’t navigate this challenging time alone if you or a loved one has been involved in a bus accident. Contact us for a consultation. We’re here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.