This is a collaborative post
Bus accidents, though less frequent than car crashes, can be devastating when they occur due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Whether you are a passenger, driver, or pedestrian, being involved in a bus accident can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. While it’s impossible to control every variable on the road, there are important steps you can take to protect yourself from a serious bus accident.
In this article, we’ll discuss safety tips for avoiding bus accidents, what to do if you’re involved in one, and how hiring a Philadelphia bus accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities if the worst happens.
1. Prioritize Safety as a Passenger
As a bus passenger, your safety starts the moment you step onto the vehicle. While bus drivers are professionally trained, accidents can still occur due to other road users, weather conditions, or mechanical failures. Here are a few tips to protect yourself:
- Choose Your Seat Wisely: The safest place to sit on a bus is typically in the middle section, near an aisle. Avoid sitting in the front or back, as these areas are more vulnerable in case of a collision.
- Use Seat Belts: If the bus has seat belts, always use them. While not all buses are equipped with seat belts, those that are provide an additional layer of protection.
- Pay Attention to the Emergency Exits: Familiarize yourself with the location of the emergency exits. This ensures that, in the event of an accident, you can quickly exit the bus if necessary.
- Keep Personal Items Secure: Loose items can become projectiles during sudden stops or crashes. Keep your belongings stored in secure compartments or hold them tightly.
- Follow Driver Instructions: The bus driver’s instructions are there for your safety. Whether it’s staying seated or exiting through a specific door, following their guidance can keep you safe in an emergency.
2. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings as a Pedestrian
If you frequently walk or bike in areas where buses are present, staying alert is critical to avoiding accidents. Buses have large blind spots, and their size makes it harder for them to stop quickly. Protect yourself by:
- Avoiding Distractions: Distracted walking is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents. Avoid using your phone or listening to music when crossing the street near buses.
- Using Crosswalks and Pedestrian Signals: Always cross the street at marked crosswalks, and wait for the appropriate signal. Be cautious even when you have the right of way, as bus drivers may not always see you.
- Standing Back from the Curb: When waiting for a bus, stand several feet away from the curb. This reduces the risk of being hit if the bus needs to swerve or stop abruptly.
- Making Eye Contact with the Driver: If you’re crossing in front of a bus, make eye contact with the driver to ensure they see you. Don’t assume that the driver is aware of your presence.
3. Defensive Driving Around Buses
If you’re driving in a vehicle near a bus, you should adjust your driving behaviour to account for the bus’s size and limited manoeuvrability. Some tips include:
- Keep a Safe Distance: Buses take longer to stop than smaller vehicles. Maintain a safe distance behind a bus to avoid rear-end collisions.
- Avoid Blind Spots: Buses have larger blind spots than cars. Avoid driving in a bus’s blind spots, which are typically located directly behind the bus and along the sides.
- Yield to Buses: When a bus is pulling out of a bus stop, it’s good practice to yield the right of way. This not only prevents accidents but also ensures that traffic keeps flowing smoothly.
- Be Cautious in School Zones: School buses frequently stop to pick up or drop off children. Always stop when you see a school bus with flashing lights and an extended stop sign, and never pass a school bus that’s loading or unloading children.
4. Know What to Do After a Bus Accident
Even if you take every precaution, bus accidents can still happen. If you find yourself involved in one, either as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect your rights and well-being.
- Check for Injuries: Your first priority should be checking for injuries. Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries can manifest hours or days later.
- Call Emergency Services: Contact the police to report the accident, especially if there are injuries. A police report will serve as an important piece of evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit later.
- Gather Information: If you’re able to, gather information from the scene. This includes taking pictures of the accident site, collecting contact information from witnesses, and noting the bus company and driver details.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Refrain from making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault, even if you’re not sure who is to blame for the accident. Insurance companies and lawyers may use your words against you in future proceedings.
5. The Importance of Hiring a Philadelphia Bus Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, it’s crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Bus accidents often involve complex legal issues, especially if the bus is operated by a government entity or a large corporation. Hiring an experienced Philadelphia bus accident lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
How a Bus Accident Lawyer Can Help:
- Determine Liability: Identifying who is at fault in a bus accident can be challenging. A skilled lawyer will investigate the accident to determine whether the bus driver, another motorist, or the bus company itself is liable.
- Handle Negotiations: Insurance companies often try to minimize pay-outs to accident victims. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- File a Lawsuit if Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. Bus accidents may involve unique laws and regulations, particularly if a government entity is involved, so having an experienced lawyer on your side is crucial.
Rosenbaum Injury Law, a respected firm specializing in bus accident cases in Philadelphia, offers expert legal guidance to victims of bus accidents. Whether your case involves a private bus company or a public transportation entity, their team understands the complexities of these cases and can help you secure the compensation needed for your recovery.
Conclusion
Bus accidents can be traumatic and life-altering, but taking steps to protect yourself—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or driver—can reduce the likelihood of injury. If you’re involved in a bus accident, it’s important to know what to do afterward and to seek legal help from a trusted Philadelphia bus accident lawyer. Their expertise will ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve during a difficult time.
By prioritizing safety and taking the appropriate legal steps after an accident, you can protect yourself and those around you from the long-lasting consequences of a serious bus accident.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post