As the third largest city in Texas, Dallas is a busy metroplex with 21 distinct bus routes. This complex network of buses is the primary mode of public transportation in the city, shuttling residents to and from work and school, to restaurants and sports venues, and for everyday commuting. Thousands of Dallas residents use public transportation each day.

With so many buses on the road, accidents are inevitable. They can happen at any time and can involve pedestrians and multiple vehicles. Buses are large and heavy vehicles, and so any accident with a bus can cause severe bodily injury and property damage.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 2,550 bus crashes in Texas in 2021. Those accidents resulted in more than 900 injuries and 21 fatalities. There were 1,187 accidents involving school buses, and sadly, some included fatalities.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, the Dallas Bus Accident Lawyers at the Francis Firm can help you get compensation for injuries and damages suffered through the negligence of others. You don’t have to take on the insurance companies alone.

Types of Bus Accident Injuries in Dallas

Bus accidents can be devastating, leaving passengers with serious, life-long injuries. Injuries can range from mild to catastrophic, leading to depression, loss of enjoyment of life, and lost wages. Below are some of the more common injuries sustained in bus accidents.

  • Head Trauma. Head trauma is one of the most serious injuries that can result from a bus accident. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur when a person’s head is struck or shaken in a violent manner, causing swelling, bleeding, or other damage to the brain. Symptoms of TBIs include confusion, headache, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, a TBI can lead to long-term disability or even death.
  • Broken Bones. Buses are bulky, heavy vehicles, and in the event of an accident can cause passengers to be jostled and thrown from their seats. This violent action can result in broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, shoulders, and ribs. Broken bones can be extremely painful, and may require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries. Spinal cord injuries occur when a person’s neck or back is forced into an unnatural position, usually as a result of an accident. These injuries can be extremely serious, as they can cause permanent nerve damage, paralysis, or even death. Symptoms of a spinal cord injury can include numbness, loss of sensation, difficulty walking, and loss of mobility.

If you or a loved one have suffered an injury due to a bus accident, it is important to speak to an experienced bus accident lawyer to ensure that you are properly compensated for your injuries.

Causes of Bus Accidents in Dallas

Bus accidents are unfortunately becoming more of a common occurrence in the Dallas area, leaving many commuters feeling unsafe and uncertain when riding on the roads. While some accidents are unavoidable, there are a few common causes that lead to the majority of bus accidents in Dallas.

The most common cause of bus accidents in Dallas is driver negligence. Drivers who are not paying close enough attention to the road may miss a stop sign, turn too quickly, or drive at excessive speeds, leading to a collision. Additionally, drivers who are distracted by their phones, or who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, put the lives of other drivers at risk.

Another frequent cause of bus accidents in Dallas is poor road conditions. Potholes and cracked roads can cause bus drivers to lose control of their vehicles, which may lead to an accident.

Finally, poor weather conditions often lead to bus accidents in Dallas. Heavy rain, snow, and ice make it difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, resulting in an accident. Additionally, strong winds can cause debris to litter the roads, causing buses to veer off course, possibly resulting in a crash.

What Does a Bus Accident Settlement Cover?

When a bus is involved in an accident, the resulting settlement can be a complex and lengthy process. Depending on the severity of the accident, a settlement could include a range of compensation for any injuries or property damages. In many cases, the settlement will involve both the bus driver and the company operator, so it’s important to understand all the potential components that could be included in a bus accident settlement.

The most fundamental component of a bus accident settlement is financial compensation for the victim. This can include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other costs associated with the accident. The amount of compensation awarded to the victim depends on the severity of their injuries and the extent of their damages. In some cases, the settlement may also include punitive damages, which are intended to punish the negligent party for their recklessness in causing the accident.

Not all bus accident settlements are the same, and the components of the settlement will depend on the specific facts of the case. The experienced Dallas bus accident lawyers at the Francis Firm can help you better understand the potential components of a bus accident settlement, and ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation you deserve. Reach out online or call today at 817-329-9001 to schedule a free and confidential case evaluation. We’ll work alongside you to investigate your claim and obtain the best settlement for your injuries and damages.