With a population of nearly one million people, Fort Worth is a bustling metropolis with lots to do. As with any large population area, buses are one of the primary modes of public transportation to get to shopping malls, entertainment venues, dining, and back and forth to work. Buses are everywhere in Fort Worth, and they move thousands of passengers every day.

With such a large number of buses on the road, bus accidents just come with the territory. They can happen at a moment’s notice, and typically involve more than just one vehicle. The sheer size and weight of buses can cause catastrophic personal 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 Fort Worth 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.

Common Causes of Fort Worth Bus Accidents

Fort Worth is a diverse metroplex with varying road and weather conditions throughout the year. This can lead to a higher risk of bus accidents during certain times of the year. Understanding the common causes of bus accidents can help us be more cautious and aware on the roads.

  • Driver fatigue. Bus drivers often have long shifts and sometimes don’t take regular breaks, which can lead to inattention and fatigue. This can cause drivers to make poor decisions that could result in accidents.
  • Distraction. Distracted drivers may be checking their cell phones, talking to passengers, or even eating while driving. Even a moment of inattention can be enough to cause a serious accident.
  • Speeding. Speed plays a factor in many bus accidents. Drivers may be trying to make up time to meet schedules, or simply driving too fast for the weather conditions.
  • Bad weather. Rain, snow, and ice can make roads slick and difficult to maneuver. Bus drivers must be more aware of their surroundings and road conditions.
  • Mechanical failure. Poor maintenance is a common cause of bus accidents. Buses are large and complex vehicles that require regular maintenance. If a bus is not properly maintained, it can malfunction and cause an accident.

Proving Negligence is Bus Crashes

When a bus accident occurs, the primary question is often who is to blame, and whether any of the involved parties acted negligently. Plainly speaking, did someone fail to exercise reasonable care that resulted in injury or death? To answer this question, our attorneys must prove negligence on the part of the driver, owner, or operator.

After a bus accident, the first thing a bus accident lawyer must do is investigate the incident. The investigative process involves interviewing witnesses, examining the scene of the accident, and reviewing any relevant documents, such as police reports, maintenance records, and bus driver logs. This investigation provides our lawyers with the necessary information and evidence to determine whether any of the parties acted negligently.

The next step is to evaluate the evidence and determine whether the bus driver, the bus company, or any other parties acted negligently. This is where a lawyer’s expertise is invaluable. Lawyers analyze the facts of the case and determine who was at fault.

Additionally, lawyers may look at the bus company’s policies and procedures to determine if they were followed. For example, if the bus company failed to train its drivers adequately or failed to keep the buses properly maintained, this can be evidence of negligence.

Fort Worth bus accident lawyers may also need to rely on expert witnesses to testify about the cause of the accident. These experts may include accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, bus manufacturing experts, and others who can provide insight into the cause of the accident and confirm whether any of the parties acted negligently.

Assigning Liability in Fort Worth Bus Accident Cases

To assign liability, the first step an attorney will take is to examine the actions of the bus driver. A bus driver is trained to ensure the bus is in good working order and that they ensure safe rides for all passengers. If they fail to do so, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries or damages. Additionally, if the bus driver was impaired while operating the vehicle, even if they were taking prescribed medication, they could be held responsible for the accident.

If the accident involves a school bus, it is possible the city or municipal school district could be held liable for the accident. Unfortunately, school bus accidents are too common, and injuries can be catastrophic. If you have been involved in a crash with a school bus, it requires special attention from experienced bus accident attorneys who know how to properly negotiate with the city or school district.

Common Injuries Sustained in Fort Worth Bus Crashes

Bus accidents are unfortunately becoming more common, and can lead to serious injuries for passengers and drivers alike. While some of the most common injuries in bus accidents are similar to those seen in car accidents, there are a few specific injuries that are more likely to occur in a bus crash.

  • Whiplash
  • Head Injuries
  • Broken Bones
  • Spinal Injuries
  • Soft Tissue Damage
  • Internal Bleeding
  • Loss of Limbs

Bus accidents can cause serious and life-threatening injuries, and it is important for anyone involved in a crash to seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, it is important to work with a personal injury lawyer to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Bus accident injury claims are about protecting your rights and holding parties responsible when their careless or intentional acts cause you injury and adversely impact you and your family’s life. Call The Francis Firm today today at 817-329-9001 for a free, no-obligation consultation and case evaluation, or schedule a free, confidential bus accident injury consultation online. We will explain your legal options, and ensure you receive the very best representation to protect your rights.