Who is liable for a bus crash?

Victims of a commercial vehicle accident, such as a bus crash, may have many questions as they face an uncertain future because of an unexpected bus accident and the injuries they have suffered. As a result, injured victims should ensure they have all their questions answered and understand the legal protections available to them.

Several different parties may be liable for a bus crash depending on the circumstances. Depending on the situation, the tour company, bus company and others may be liable to compensate victims for the harm they have suffered. Victims may suffer physical, financial and emotional damages including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering damages which may be compensated through a claim for damages. Additional types of damages may be available if the situation calls for it.

Buses fall into a category referred to as common carriers. Common carriers must exercise a higher degree of care for the safety of passengers than a driver of a passenger vehicle, for example. Common carriers transport people or goods from one location to another in exchange for compensation. Common carriers include tour buses, commercial buses, school buses, cabs, certain trucks, commercial airplanes and cruise ships. Liability for carelessness that injures passengers may be based on this.

Commercial vehicle accidents can result in extensive harm to victims and their families which is why they should be familiar with the legal options available to protect them and hold a careless bus company accountable. Legal remedies can help them through the challenging times they face following a bus accident.