When a bus accident occurs, it can be a terrifying experience, leaving passengers, drivers, and their families unsure of what to do next. Recent crashes on New York highways highlight the dangers of these incidents, such as the January 5, 2023, tour bus rollover on I-87 Northway near Lake George and the school bus crash on I-787 southbound near the Troy-Menands Bridge. While some accidents result in minor injuries, others can have devastating consequences. Here, we explain what you need to know about your legal rights and options after a bus accident.
Who can be held responsible for a bus crash?
Parties responsible could include:
- The bus driver;
- The company that owed the bus if it was being rented;
- The manufacturer if the crash was due to a defect or mechanical malfunction;
- Another motorist responsible for causing the crash; and
- An auto-repair shop who is responsible for negligent vehicle maintenance.
Factors causing such an occurrence could include:
- Driver errors due to excessive speed, inattention, intoxication, or a sudden health event such as a heart attack;
- Vehicle equipment failure;
- Failure to make necessary repairs to the bus;
- Vehicle design flaws; and
- Negligence of other drivers.
What claims could be filed after a bus accident?
The damages and losses to be claimed by victims and family members are considerable. Those who were directly injured in the crash could receive compensation including that for current and future medical bills, current and future lost income, pain and suffering, and in extreme cases punitive damages. There is insurance coverage available to compensate bus crash victims. The amount of coverage depends on if the bus was for-hire, privately owned, or publicly owned.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, our personal injury attorneys are here to help. We have extensive experience handling bus accident claims and can guide you through the legal process with compassion and expertise. At LaMarche Safranko Law we handle bus crash cases in Warrensburg, Lake George, Glens Falls, Saratoga, Albany, Watervliet, Troy and throughout the state. Injured by another? Call 844-RECOVER.